Does Your Child Have This Highly Contagious Disease in the Gem State?

The winter can be rough in Idaho. The weather is unpredictable, the temperatures are cold, the wind is strong, and the gloomy days can take a toll. While all of these are things to be concerned about, there are also many illnesses that are floating around the Gem State this time of year. Early in 2026, the flu is already getting around, the super flu is going around as well, and common illnesses like strep throat, colds, and many other illnesses. There is one highly contagious disease that is currently spreading throughout Idaho to keep an eye out for this year, and to try to avoid at all costs.

Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease in Idaho

While everyone is looking out for symptoms of the flu, colds, and things of that nature, they aren't the only illnesses going around this year. Hand, foot, and mouth disease is rapidly spreading, and your children are at the highest risk for it, but not the only ones who can get it. It is common to see hand, foot, and mouth disease spread throughout classrooms and daycares when a child has it, as it is highly contagious, and this year, the number of cases is significantly high. Many think that because it is most common in children, only they can get it, but adults can still get it, although it is less likely, and the symptoms are usually minimal. Does your kid have hand, foot, and mouth disease? How do you know, and what should you look out for?

What is Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease in Idaho?

If you or your child has never had hand, foot, and mouth disease, you may not know what to look for. A fever is common, but not always a part of it; the main symptom to look out for is sores on the hands, feet, and in the mouth. You can look at the pictures above, or click the link here, to see what the sores look like and what to keep an eye out for. Some other symptoms may include drooling, trouble eating from the sores, pain in the hands, and pain in the feet, also from the sores. It can last anywhere from 7 to 10 days, with some cases lasting a little less. There is typically no major threat to whoever gets it other than being uncomfortable, but it is highly contagious. If you believe your child has hand, foot, and mouth disease, it is best to keep them out of school or daycare until the sores heal. 

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For more on hand, foot, and mouth disease, make sure to click the link above. There are known cases in Idaho, including in the Magic Valley, so make sure to wash your hands commonly, and check your child's hands, feet, and mouth, as not everyone gets sores in all three places.