Recognising Hand, Foot, Mouth Disease (HFMD) Recovery and Herpangina in Singapore: What Parents and Adults Need to Know
- Oaklife Family Clinic
- Apr 10
- 4 min read
Updated: Apr 16
Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease (HFMD) and herpangina are common viral infections in Singapore, particularly among young children — but adults aren’t immune either.
Many parents and adults in Singapore are unsure how to tell if HFMD is healing, how to relieve symptoms with gels or creams, or how to tell it apart from similar infections like herpangina. This article answers key questions on recovery milestones, relief treatments, and how to differentiate between HFMD and herpangina.
What is Herpangina and How is it Different from HFMD?
Herpangina is a viral illness caused by the same group of viruses (enteroviruses) that cause HFMD. While they share similarities, herpangina mainly presents with painful ulcers at the back of the throat and roof of the mouth, unlike HFMD which typically involves rashes and blisters on the hands, feet, and mouth.
Both HFMD and herpangina are caused by enteroviruses — mainly coxsackievirus. They share overlapping symptoms, but there are a few distinguishing signs:
Symptom | HFMD | Herpangina |
Fever | Common | Sudden and high |
Mouth Sores | Painful ulcers + skin rash on hands, feet, buttocks | Painful ulcers at back of throat only |
Rash | Yes, usually red spots or blisters on palms, soles | No external rash |
Age group | Infants, toddlers, preschoolers; adults possible | Mostly children under 10 |
For a detailed overview of HFMD in both children and adults, check out our essential guide to HFMD. In Singapore, both illnesses spike during warmer, humid months and are spread via saliva, nasal mucus, and faeces.
How to Know HFMD is Healing
Many parents and adults in Singapore are unsure how to tell if HFMD is healing, how to relieve symptoms with gels or creams, or how to tell it apart from similar infections like herpangina.
Recovery from HFMD usually takes 7–10 days. Here are signs that healing has begun:
Fever subsides: Your child or you no longer have a high temperature
Ulcers scab over or disappear: Mouth pain eases, allowing normal eating
Rashes dry and peel: Blisters stop forming and the skin begins to flake
Energy returns: Fatigue lifts and mood improves
Appetite improves: Normal feeding patterns resume
⚠️ Reminder: Even after visible symptoms fade, the virus can still be present in stools for weeks. Practise strict hygiene for at least 2–3 weeks post-recovery. For more on caring for children post-HFMD, read our article on navigating HFMD recovery and prevention.
HFMD Recovery Timeline
Most children and adults recover from HFMD within 7 to 10 days. Here are signs that HFMD is healing:
Fever subsides: Usually within 3–5 days.
Ulcers and rashes dry up: Mouth sores become less painful, and blisters on the hands and feet crust over and flake.
Energy returns: Appetite improves and general mood becomes better.
Parents and caregivers should continue to monitor symptoms and ensure proper hydration and rest during recovery.
When to See a Doctor
Seek medical help if:
High fever persists >3 days
Painful swallowing or signs of dehydration occur
Rashes worsen or appear infected
There are signs of confusion, lethargy, or shortness of breath
What to Do for Symptom Relief
Topical Gels for HFMD Sores
HFMD mouth sores can be very painful. For adults and older children:
Use soothing mouth gels with ingredients like benzocaine or lidocaine (consult a pharmacist or doctor first).
Avoid spicy, acidic or crunchy foods.
Stay Hydrated
Sip cool water or ice chips
Try oral rehydration salts if there is prolonged poor intake
Can Adults Get HFMD? A rare and serious case study.
Yes. Though less common, adults can catch HFMD through contact with infected saliva, fluids from blisters, or faeces. Symptoms are usually mild but can still disrupt daily life. In 2023, Singapore recorded over 21,000 HFMD cases, with adults accounting for a small but growing percentage, especially in family clusters.
While adult cases of HFMD are rare, they can happen and may be more severe than in children. One case involved a 35-year-old man who experienced fever, sore throat, headache behind the eyes, and joint pain. Over time, he developed painful mouth ulcers, a rash on his hands and feet, and chest discomfort. Eventually, he was diagnosed with myopericarditis, a heart condition linked to the virus.
Fortunately, his condition improved with medical care, but the case highlights how HFMD in adults can mimic other serious conditions and should not be ignored.
"While HFMD in adults tends to be milder, recovery support and proper hygiene remain just as important to prevent community spread," says Dr. Daniel Lim, Senior Family Physician at Oaklife Family Clinic
Whether you're recovering from HFMD as an adult or caring for a child post-illness, knowing the healing signs, using appropriate relief measures, and practising prevention can make a big difference. Stay informed, stay clean, and seek help when needed.
🏥 Need support? Oaklife Family Clinic provides family-friendly care for viral illnesses including HFMD and herpangina. We’re a CHAS-approved clinic. Book an appointment here.
FAQs: HFMD and Herpangina in Singapore
Q: Is HFMD in adults contagious?
A: Yes, adults with HFMD can spread the virus, especially through saliva and faecal contact. Practise good hygiene and avoid close contact.
Q: Can HFMD come back again?
A: Yes. There are different strains of the virus, so repeat infections are possible.
Q: Can I use HFMD gel on children?
A: Only use child-safe gels as advised by your doctor. Adult formulations may not be safe for young children.
Q: How do I tell if it’s HFMD or herpangina?
A: HFMD usually comes with skin rashes/blisters; herpangina tends to affect only the throat area. A doctor’s assessment can confirm the diagnosis.
Q: Should I isolate myself if I have HFMD?
A: Yes, avoid close contact until all blisters dry up and your fever subsides to prevent spreading the infection.