What happens after a telemedicine visit for Hand-Foot-and-Mouth Disease - Triage

Audience: pediatric

After a telemedicine visit for Hand-Foot-and-Mouth Disease (HFMD), you will usually receive guidance on how to care for your child at home. HFMD is a common viral illness that causes sores in the mouth and a rash on the hands and feet. The illness often resolves on its own within 7 to 10 days. During the tele-visit, the healthcare provider will assess symptoms and may suggest ways to relieve discomfort, such as using pain relievers and keeping your child hydrated. You will also be advised on signs that need urgent medical attention. Follow-up care may include monitoring your child's condition and contacting your healthcare provider if symptoms worsen or new symptoms appear. Telemedicine can help provide quick advice and support but cannot replace in-person exams if your child is very sick or has complications.

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 dizziness — contact healthcare provider urgently.
• High fever lasting more than 3 days or worsening symptoms — arrange in-person evaluation.

What telemedicine can do

• Initial assessment of symptoms and rash appearance.
• Providing guidance on symptom relief and home care.
• Monitoring mild cases and advising on when to seek further care.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Performing physical examinations needing hands-on assessment.
• Diagnosing complications requiring lab tests or imaging.
• Treating severe dehydration or respiratory distress.

Understanding Hand-Foot-and-Mouth Disease

Hand-Foot-and-Mouth Disease is a mild viral infection common in children. It causes small, painful sores inside the mouth and a rash with blisters on the hands, feet, and sometimes other body parts. The illness spreads easily, especially in childcare settings. Most children recover fully without treatment within a week or two.

What to Expect During Your Telemedicine Visit

During the telemedicine visit, the healthcare provider will ask about your child's symptoms, such as fever, mouth sores, rash, and general behavior. They may visually examine the rash and mouth through video if possible. Based on this, they will offer advice on symptom relief and when to seek further care.

Home Care Tips After Your Telemedicine Visit

You may be advised to:

When to Seek In-Person Medical Care

If your child develops any of the following, seek in-person medical care promptly:

These signs may indicate complications that require urgent evaluation.

Follow-Up After Your Telemedicine Visit

Continue to monitor your child's symptoms daily. If symptoms worsen or new concerns arise, contact your healthcare provider. Most children improve without further treatment, but follow-up ensures safe recovery.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Ensure a stable internet connection and a quiet, well-lit space for the visit.
• Have a list of your child's symptoms, including when they started and any changes.
• Prepare to show the rash and mouth sores clearly via video if possible.
• Have a list of any medications your child is taking.
• Be ready to describe your child's hydration and eating habits.

After your tele-visit

• Follow the home care advice given during the telemedicine visit.
• Monitor your child's symptoms daily for any changes or worsening.
• Keep your child hydrated and comfortable.
• Contact your healthcare provider if red flag symptoms develop.
• Maintain good hygiene to prevent spreading the illness to others.

FAQs

Is Hand-Foot-and-Mouth Disease contagious?

Yes, HFMD spreads easily through close contact, respiratory droplets, and touching contaminated surfaces. Good handwashing helps reduce spread.

Can my child attend school or daycare during HFMD?

Children are most contagious during the first week of illness. Check with your local health guidelines, but often children stay home until fever resolves and mouth sores improve.

What medicines can I give my child for HFMD symptoms?

Over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen may help reduce fever and pain. Avoid aspirin in children. Always follow dosing instructions and consult your healthcare provider.

When should I call my healthcare provider after the telemedicine visit?

Call if your child's symptoms worsen, if they develop difficulty breathing, dehydration signs, high fever lasting more than 3 days, or any other concerning 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: Overview — Merck Manuals Consumer Version.

This telemedicine guidance is for educational and triage purposes only. It is not a substitute for in-person medical care or professional diagnosis. If your child has severe symptoms or you have concerns, seek immediate medical attention.