Public Health issues advice for hand, foot and mouth disease

It's most commonly caught by children under 10

Public Health Isle of Man has issued advice for those who contract hand, foot and mouth disease.

The viral infection causes mouth ulcers and spots on the hands and feet and is most commonly caught by children under 10.

It will usually go away on its own after 10 days and there is no specific treatment for it.

Public Health says there's no need for a child to be kept away from school if they have it unless they are unwell.

Hand, foot and mouth disease is a viral infection that causes mouth ulcers and spots on the hands and feet, most commonly in children under 10 years of age.

Public Health says: "It spreads by direct contact with the saliva and faeces of the infected person or by aerosol spread through coughing and sneezing. The virus can be present in the saliva and faeces of the affected person for several weeks, therefore good hygiene is recommended.

"Children should be encouraged and supported to wash their hands regularly with soap and water. We would also advise that you should not share cups or cutlery, toys, towels and bedding with the person. Bedding and towels should be cleaned on a hot wash to help to reduce the risk of spreading hand, foot and mouth to others."

You can find out more here.