How does the hand, foot and mouth virus spread?

The virus spreads through respiratory droplets, fluid from blisters, and infected surfaces. It can also spread through stool, putting those changing diapers at risk.

What are the symptoms of hand, foot and mouth disease?

Common symptoms include fever, respiratory issues, and a painful rash or blisters on the hands, feet, and inside the mouth. In severe cases, fingernails may even fall off.

Home / Health / Pediatric Infectious Disease Expert Warns of "Out of Control" Hand, Foot and Mouth Cases

Pediatric Infectious Disease Expert Warns of "Out of Control" Hand, Foot and Mouth Cases

17 Nov

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Summary

Multiple states reporting outbreaks of hand, foot and mouth disease
Cases in Maryland 4-5 times higher than last year
Virus can infect children under 5 and older kids/adults

Pediatric Infectious Disease Expert Warns of "Out of Control" Hand, Foot and Mouth Cases

As of November 17th, 2025, multiple states including Maryland, Virginia, Tennessee, and Wisconsin have reported alarming outbreaks of hand, foot and mouth disease, a contagious viral illness. According to Dr. Allison Agwu, a professor of infectious diseases at Johns Hopkins University, the situation in Maryland is particularly dire, with cases currently 4-5 times higher than this time last year.

Dr. Matthew Thomas, a pediatric infectious disease specialist at WVU Medicine Golisano Children's in West Virginia, explains that spikes in hand, foot and mouth disease often occur in cycles, with some years seeing significantly more cases than others. This year appears to be one of those high-activity periods, as the virus continues to spread rapidly across the region.