When can my kid go back to school after hand, foot, and mouth?
Last updated September 3, 2026.
Back when the fever is gone and they feel well enough for class: CDC guidance does not require waiting for every blister to heal, though many schools and daycares set stricter policies. HFMD is most contagious in the first week, but virus lingers in saliva and stool for weeks, so exclusion can never be perfect and hygiene does the real work: handwashing after diaper changes and bathroom visits, no shared cups or utensils, disinfected surfaces. The illness runs 7 to 10 days; mouth sores are the rough part, eased with cold drinks, ice pops, and acetaminophen or ibuprofen, while acidic foods sting. The watch-out is dehydration because drinking hurts: few wet diapers, no tears, or refusing fluids entirely earns a call to the doctor. Check your daycare or school's specific rule before returning; their policy, not the CDC's, is what the front desk enforces. Adults catch it too, usually milder.
What to do
- Return rule: no fever, feels well enough, blisters not weeping.
- Check daycare policy first: many are stricter than CDC guidance.
- Handwashing is the defense: stool sheds virus for weeks.
- Comfort care: cold drinks, ice pops, acetaminophen or ibuprofen.
- Dehydration signs: few wet diapers, no tears, refusing to drink.
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