Herpangina is an infection caused by different types of viruses (germs). Kids with herpangina (hur-pan-JY-nuh) have sores in the back of the mouth and throat. The sores often cause pain, so kids may not want to eat and drink. This can lead to dehydration (not enough water in the body). You can help your child feel better until the sores heal.

• If your child is uncomfortable from the sores or fever, and your health care provider says it's OK, you can give acetaminophen (Tylenol^® or a store brand) or ibuprofen (Advil^®, Motrin^®, or a store brand). Follow the package instructions for how much to give and how often. Do not give ibuprofen to babies under 6 months old.
• Don't give your child aspirin, as it can cause Reye syndrome, a rare but serious illness.
• Offer your child lots of liquids to drink.
• If swallowing hurts, try offering soft or cold foods like soups, milkshakes, smoothies, ice pops, or ice cream.
• Help your child avoid acidic foods and drinks like tomatoes, orange juice, and lemonade, which can make the sores hurt.
• If your child knows how to rinse the mouth without swallowing, have them gargle with a little saltwater 4–6 times a day. To make the saltwater, mix ¼ teaspoon of salt in 8 ounces of warm water. 
• Let your child rest as much as needed.
• Ask the health care provider about when it's OK for your child to return to school or childcare. This is usually when your child has not had a fever for at least a day, is eating and drinking, and has most of their energy back.

Your child:

• Is not drinking liquids 
• Vomits more than a few times in a day
• Has mouth sores that last longer than a week

Your child:

• Isn't drinking at all or has signs of dehydration, such as a dry or sticky mouth, sunken eyes, peeing less often, darker than usual pee, or crying with little or no tears
• Is very fussy and can't be comforted
• Seems to be getting sicker, is confused, or gets new symptoms like weakness, a bad headache or a stiff neck

You know your child best. If your child has symptoms that worry you, call your health care provider or go to the ER.

Can herpangina cause other symptoms? Yes, kids with herpangina also may have a fever, sore throat, drooling, headache, stomachache, vomiting, or crankiness. 

Do antibiotics help herpangina? No. Antibiotics treat infections caused by bacteria. Viruses cause herpangina.

Is herpangina contagious? Yes, the viruses that cause herpangina can spread to others through poop, spit, mucus from the mouth or nose, and fluid from a sore.

What can families do to avoid spreading the virus? 

• Wash hands well and often. Use soap and water. Scrub for at least 20 seconds, rinse, and dry thoroughly. If soap is not available, use a hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol. This is especially important after having a bowel movement, coughing, or sneezing.
• Clean and disinfect bathroom, kitchen, and diaper changing surfaces.