Hand, foot, and mouth disease (HFMD) is highly contagious. A person infected with the viruses that cause HFMD can easily pass the virus to others, especially during the first week of illness, often even before symptoms like rash appear

. The disease spreads through:

• Respiratory droplets from coughing, sneezing, or talking
• Contact with fluid from blisters
• Contact with contaminated surfaces or objects
• Fecal-oral route, as the virus can be shed in stool for weeks after symptoms resolve

Children under 5 years old are most commonly affected, particularly in settings like daycare or schools where close contact is frequent

. The contagious period generally lasts about 7 to 10 days, coinciding with the symptomatic phase, but virus shedding in stool can continue for several weeks, potentially extending contagiousness beyond visible symptoms

. To reduce spread, frequent handwashing, disinfecting surfaces, and avoiding close contact with infected individuals are recommended

. In summary, HFMD is very contagious, especially in the early stages of illness, and can be transmitted through multiple routes including respiratory droplets, direct contact with blisters, and fecal contamination. The contagious period typically lasts about a week but can extend due to prolonged viral shedding in stool.