Hand, foot, and mouth disease (HFMD) typically lasts around 7 to 10 days. The illness progresses through several stages, starting with an incubation period of about 3 to 7 days after exposure to the virus. Initial symptoms like fever and sore throat usually last 1 to 3 days. The characteristic rash and mouth sores generally develop after the fever and can last from 5 to 7 days. Full recovery usually occurs within 7 to 10 days from the onset of symptoms. In some cases, the rash on hands and feet may last up to 10 days, sometimes peeling as it heals. Most people recover without complications during this time frame.

The infectious period can extend a bit longer, with virus shedding continuing for weeks even after symptoms resolve, but the acute illness duration is about a week to ten days.