How to prepare for a video visit about Hand-Foot-and-Mouth Disease - Triage

Audience: pediatric

Hand-Foot-and-Mouth Disease (HFMD) is a common viral illness that mostly affects young children. It usually causes fever, mouth sores, and a rash on the hands and feet. Preparing for a video visit about HFMD can help you share important information with the healthcare provider and get the best advice. During the video visit, the provider will ask about your child's symptoms, how long they have lasted, and any other health concerns. You may be asked to show the rash or mouth sores on camera. This visit is to help decide if your child needs further care or treatment. While telemedicine can support early evaluation and advice, some cases may require in-person examination. This guide helps you get ready for the video visit, understand what telemedicine can and cannot do, and know when to seek urgent care.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Difficulty breathing or swallowing — seek emergency care immediately.
• Signs of dehydration such as very little urine output, dry mouth, or no tears when crying — contact healthcare urgently.
• High fever lasting more than 3 days or worsening symptoms — arrange prompt medical evaluation.

What telemedicine can do

• Initial assessment of symptoms and rash appearance.
• Guidance on home care and symptom relief.
• Advice on when to seek in-person or emergency care.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Physical examination requiring hands-on assessment.
• Laboratory testing or diagnostic procedures.
• Treatment of severe or complicated cases requiring in-person care.

What is Hand-Foot-and-Mouth Disease?

HFMD is a viral infection common in children under 5 years old. It causes a fever, painful sores in the mouth, and a rash on the hands, feet, and sometimes the buttocks. The illness usually lasts 7 to 10 days and often gets better without special treatment. It spreads through close contact, coughs, sneezes, and touching contaminated surfaces.

How to Prepare for Your Video Visit

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What to Expect During the Video Visit

The healthcare provider will ask about your child's symptoms, including fever, mouth pain, rash, and appetite. They may ask to see the rash and mouth sores on camera. The provider will assess whether your child can be cared for at home or if they need to be seen in person. They will give advice on symptom relief and when to seek further care.

When to Seek In-Person Care or Emergency Help

If your child has any of the following, seek immediate medical care:

These signs need urgent evaluation beyond telemedicine.

How Telemedicine Can Help

Telemedicine allows you to connect with a healthcare provider quickly to discuss your child's symptoms. It can help determine if your child likely has HFMD and guide you on home care. It can also help decide if your child needs to be seen in person or needs emergency care.

Limitations of Telemedicine for HFMD

Telemedicine cannot perform a physical exam or tests that might be needed in some cases. If your child's symptoms are severe or unclear, the provider may recommend an in-person visit. Telemedicine is not a substitute for emergency care when serious symptoms occur.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Choose a quiet, well-lit area with a stable internet connection for the video visit.
• Have your child's symptom history ready, including when symptoms started and how they have changed.
• Prepare to show the rash and mouth sores clearly on camera.
• Have a thermometer and any current medications on hand.
• Write down any questions or concerns you want to discuss during the visit.

After your tele-visit

• Follow the healthcare provider's advice on symptom management at home.
• Monitor your child's symptoms closely for any worsening or new red flags.
• Keep your child hydrated and comfortable.
• Schedule an in-person visit if recommended or if symptoms worsen.
• Contact emergency services immediately if red flag symptoms develop.

FAQs

What causes Hand-Foot-and-Mouth Disease?

HFMD is caused by viruses from the enterovirus family, most commonly coxsackievirus. It spreads through close contact with an infected person’s saliva, mucus, or stool.

Is Hand-Foot-and-Mouth Disease contagious?

Yes, HFMD is contagious, especially in the first week of illness. It spreads through coughing, sneezing, touching contaminated surfaces, or close contact with an infected person.

How can I help my child feel better at home?

You can help by giving plenty of fluids, using pain relievers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen (as advised by your healthcare provider), and keeping your child's mouth clean. Avoid acidic or spicy foods that may irritate mouth sores.

When should I be worried about my child’s symptoms?

Seek urgent medical care if your child has trouble breathing or swallowing, shows signs of dehydration, has a high fever lasting more than 3 days, or shows unusual drowsiness or confusion.

Can antibiotics treat Hand-Foot-and-Mouth Disease?

No, antibiotics do not work against viruses. HFMD is caused by a virus, so antibiotics are not effective. Treatment focuses on relieving symptoms.

Sources

1. Hand-Foot-and-Mouth Disease — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
2. Hand-Foot-and-Mouth Disease — MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine.
3. Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease — Mayo Clinic.
4. Hand-Foot-and-Mouth Disease — Merck Manuals Consumer Version.

This telemedicine guidance is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for in-person medical care. If your child's symptoms are severe or worsen, seek immediate medical attention.