OHIO — Data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention shows that Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease is common among children ages five and younger. But doctors say anyone can get it because it is highly contagious. 

People can catch the disease by coming in contact with someone who has it, especially if they’ve sneezed or coughed. While children may get sores and bumps on their hands, feet and mouth when they get it, that isn’t always the case with adults.

Instead, adults may just have cold or allergy-like symptoms. But it’s still just as contagious. That’s why medical professionals say people should avoid contact with anyone until your symptoms have cleared up. 

“You should stay home because it’s highly contagious until the fever resolves without using fever, reducing medicine,” said Dr. Barbara Bawer, assistant clinical professor at The Ohio State University. “So without using Tylenol or Ibuprofen. You should stay home because it’s highly contagious until the fever resolves without using fever-reducing medicine. So without using Tylenol or Ibuprofen. And after the ulcers have scabbed over, then you can return to work.”

The virus usually clears up on its own within seven to 10 days. People are encouraged to see a doctor if the symptoms get worse.