Awareness and Information File - Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease Published Sept. 15, 2014 By Public Health 82d AMDS SHEPPARD AIR FORCE BASE Texas -- Hand, foot, and mouth disease is a common childhood illness. In short, this is a non-serious illness with most children recovering fully in 7 to 10 days. Basic facts are listed below: · It is not the same disease as foot-and-mouth disease · Usually causes fever, painful sores in the mouth, and a rash on the hands and feet · Mostly affects infants and children younger than 5 years old, but people of any age can be infected · Is a contagious disease · Infection risk can be reduced by practicing good hygiene, such as washing hands often · Avoid close contact such as kissing, hugging, or sharing eating utensils or cups with those infected with hand, foot, and mouth disease · Has no specific treatment Below are two links to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention regarding this illness: http://www.cdc.gov/Features/HandFootMouthDisease/ http://www2c.cdc.gov/podcasts/player.asp?f=4046594 (CDC Podcast) For more information about Hand, foot, and mouth disease contact the 82d AMDS Public Health Flight at 676-3052 or call our Nurse Advice Line at 676-1847.