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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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How Long Does Hand Foot And Mouth Disease Remain Contagious?

I am an adult with hand foot and mouth. Initial symptoms started 3 days ago and the bumps started last night, with many more appearing this morning. Today is my first day that (so far) I don’t have a fever. My question is, when can I go back to work? I am a pediatric nurse practitioner and I don’t want to infect my patients by going back too soon.
Tue, 7 Aug 2018
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Internal Medicine Specialist,  's  Response
Hello and Welcome to ‘Ask A Doctor’ service.
I have reviewed your query and here is my advice.

Generally, a person with hand, foot, and mouth disease is most contagious during the first week of illness. People can sometimes be contagious for days or weeks after symptoms go away. Some people, especially adults, may become infected and not develop any symptoms, but they can still spread the virus to others. This is why people should always try to maintain good hygiene, such as frequent hand washing, so they can minimize their chance of spreading or getting infections. I think I answered to your question if you have more questions feel free to ask.



Hope I have answered your query. Let me know if I can assist you further.

Regards,

Dr. Penchila Prasad Kandikattu

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How Long Does Hand Foot And Mouth Disease Remain Contagious?

Hello and Welcome to ‘Ask A Doctor’ service. I have reviewed your query and here is my advice. Generally, a person with hand, foot, and mouth disease is most contagious during the first week of illness. People can sometimes be contagious for days or weeks after symptoms go away. Some people, especially adults, may become infected and not develop any symptoms, but they can still spread the virus to others. This is why people should always try to maintain good hygiene, such as frequent hand washing, so they can minimize their chance of spreading or getting infections. I think I answered to your question if you have more questions feel free to ask. Hope I have answered your query. Let me know if I can assist you further. Regards, Dr. Penchila Prasad Kandikattu