Keep the patient comfortable and well-hydrated (offer frequent sips of water, oral rehydration solution, or cool fluids)
Use pain and fever relief as needed (acetaminophen/paracetamol or ibuprofen if appropriate for age and medical history)
Apply topical mouth pain relief if available and appropriate for age (follow label directions)
Rinse or gargle with warm salt water for older children (if tolerated)
Offer soft, bland foods (yogurt, porridge, mashed foods, soups) and avoid spicy, acidic, or salty foods
Encourage good oral hygiene (gentle brushing; avoid harsh mouthwashes)
Use cool compresses on painful areas and keep skin clean and dry
Treat skin discomfort with soothing measures (calamine lotion or similar soothing products if appropriate)
Avoid tight clothing and friction on rash areas
Do not pop blisters or scratch lesions
Wash hands frequently and keep fingernails trimmed
Clean and disinfect commonly touched surfaces and items (toys, doorknobs, bathroom fixtures)
Launder clothing, bedding, and towels regularly
Keep the patient home while fever is present and until they feel well and lesions have started to heal (follow local school/daycare guidance)
Seek urgent medical care if any of the following occur: trouble breathing, severe dehydration (very little urination, lethargy, dry mouth), persistent vomiting, worsening severe pain, stiff neck, uncontrolled fever, or the patient is an infant/young child with concerning symptoms
Contact a clinician promptly if symptoms are severe, last longer than expected, or if the patient has immune system problems
Avoid aspirin in children and teens
Avoid antibiotics unless prescribed for a secondary bacterial infection