Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease: When Is It Safe to Return to School?

Enterovirus Resumption of Classes

Hello, Director Hsiao.
I would like to ask about my condition after being diagnosed with enterovirus.
I have been resting at home for a week and have no fever, but I still have 7-8 sores in my throat that have not healed.
Am I still contagious? Do I need to wait until all the sores in my throat have healed before returning to school? Thank you.

Puti, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2018/11/08

Dr. Xiao Kaiwen reply Pediatrics

The general transmissibility of enteroviruses through saliva is strongest during the 7 to 10 days following the onset of illness.
Although we typically recommend staying home from school for one week, based on your situation, I suggest extending this period to 10 days.

Reply Date: 2018/11/08

More Info

Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease (HFMD) is a common viral infection primarily affecting young children, although it can occur in adults as well. It is caused by several different viruses, most commonly coxsackievirus. The disease is characterized by fever, mouth sores, and a rash on the hands and feet. One of the key concerns for parents and caregivers is determining when it is safe for a child to return to school or daycare after being diagnosed with HFMD.

In your case, you mentioned that you have been resting at home for a week and no longer have a fever, but you still have several sores in your throat that have not healed. The question of whether you are still contagious and whether you should wait until all sores have healed before returning to school is important.

Generally, a child with HFMD is considered contagious from the time symptoms begin until all sores have healed. This means that even if the fever has resolved, the presence of open sores in the mouth can still pose a risk of spreading the virus to others. The virus can be present in the throat and mouth, as well as in the stool, for several weeks after the symptoms have resolved. Therefore, it is advisable to wait until all mouth sores have completely healed before returning to school to minimize the risk of transmission.

In addition to the healing of sores, it is also important to consider the overall health and comfort of the child. If the child is still experiencing pain or discomfort from the sores, it may be best to keep them at home until they are feeling better. This not only helps prevent the spread of the virus but also ensures that the child can participate fully in school activities once they return.

To summarize, it is recommended to wait until all throat sores have healed completely before returning to school. This will help ensure that you are no longer contagious and will also allow you to recover fully. In the meantime, continue to practice good hygiene, such as frequent handwashing and avoiding close contact with others, to help prevent the spread of the virus.

If you have any concerns about the healing process or if the sores do not seem to be improving, it is advisable to consult with a healthcare professional for further evaluation and guidance. They can provide personalized advice based on your specific situation and help determine the best course of action for your recovery and return to school.

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