Possible Signs and Symptoms:
· Fever that comes on suddenly.
· Child is very grouchy or has no energy.
· Small sores and fluid-filled blisters that may be on the tongue and roof of mouth.
· Swollen gums which may bleed.
· Sever mouth pain.
· Will not eat or drink, or poor appetite.
How to Care for Your Child:
· Keep in mind that mouth sores can last from 7 to 10 days.
· Keep your child home from school or childcare if he has a fever above 100ºF. Your child should not have a fever for 24 hours before going back to school.
· For children over one year of age, give lots of liquids such as water, milk, and Popsicles. Avoid fruit juices (such as orange juice) that are high in acid. These may irritate the child’s mouth sores.
· Give soft foods often, but don’t force your child to eat. Your child may have less appetite with the mouth sores, but it’s important to make sure the child keeps taking liquids.
· For children under one year of age, give formula or Pedialyte®.
· Your doctor may prescribe certain medicines to sooth the mouth sores or reduce the swelling.
· Your doctor may suggest Tylenol® or Motrin® for pain or fever.
How to Protect Others:
· Be sure to wash your child’s bottles, pacifier, eating utensils and sups in hot soap water.
· Wash your hands after touching your child’s face or mouth.
· Don’t let other children use your child’s bottle or pacifier.
· Soak any washable toys in a bleach solution for 2 minutes. (Mix 2 tablespoons of household bleach in a quart of water.) Rinse well with plain water and air-dry.
When to Call the Doctor (or Emergency Dept.):
· If your child has a fever over 101ºF for more than 7 days.
· If your child stops drinking liquids.
· If your child get even more fussy.
· If your child has any signs of dehydration (stops crying tears; has very little urine; has dry, cracked lips; acts very tired or lazy).
