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Individual cases and outbreaks of hand, foot, and mouth disease (HFMD) occur around the world. In countries with temperate (varying) climates, cases occur more often in the spring to fall.

Since 1997, large outbreaks of HFMD caused by enterovirus 71 have been reported mostly in children in east and Southeast Asia. In these outbreaks, most children have typical symptoms of HFMD and recover without health complications. However, a small number of people with this disease develop severe complications requiring hospitalization or even causing death.

Researchers are conducting studies to understand why these outbreaks occur and why some people have severe disease. They are also working to develop treatments and vaccines to help prevent HFMD in the future.

To learn more about outbreaks occurring in some countries in Asia, visit the World Health Organization.