Parents warned of the dangers of hand, foot and mouth disease

A surge in cases of hand, foot and mouth disease in Oldham and Rochdale has prompted health professionals in our region to warn parents to look out for the signs.

It causes red spots on the tongue and mouth - and a rash to the fingers and soles of the feet.

The illness is very contagious and common in children under 10.

Most cases don't need medical attention, but mums and dads are being told if symptoms don't ease after a week to speak to a doctor.

There's been a recent spate of cases in Heywood, Middleton and Rochdale.

The first signs are a high temperature, loss of appetite, a cough and a sore throat.

After a couple of days, spots can develop inside the mouth and on the tongue - and they can become painful ulcers that make eating and drinking difficult.

A rash can then develop on the hands and feet.

They can become blisters, which are itchy and uncomfortable.

Health experts say the best way to treat the illness is to keep the child at home and keep them hydrated.

If ulcers in the mouth are painful, soft foods and paracetamol are recommended.

Symptoms should last between a week and 10 days - and most cases won't need medical attention.

If symptoms last longer or children show signs of dehydration, have fits, a very high temperature, are unusually tired or unrousable, or if their skin is painful, red, swollen or hot to the touch, then parents are being told to speak to the doctor.

To minimise the spread of the illness, health experts say you should wash your hands and disinfect contaminated surfaces.

There's more information at: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/hand-foot-mouth-disease/