Hand, Foot & Mouth

This is a mild disease caused by the coxsackle virus. A fever is common with ulcers in the mouth and a red raised rash on the hands and feet, which then develop into small blisters.

Incubation period is 3 to 7 days.

It is spread by respiratory droplets or by the faecal-oral route.

Articles such as tissues should be disposed of immediately.  As this virus can also live in the bowel it is important that good personal hygiene is exercised especially hand washing.

Hand foot and mouth is most infectious before the blisters appear.

Because children of this age play very close together with frequent physical contact, often putting toys in their mouths, it is our policy at Groombridge Pre-school is that children with hand foot and mouth should stay at home until they are well.

This policy is known, agreed and implemented by all staff.

 This policy is known and made available to all parents.