The primary difference between hand, foot, and mouth disease (HFMD) and chickenpox lies in the location and characteristics of the blisters or rash, as well as the viruses that cause them.
Key Distinctions
Here's a breakdown of the key differences:
| Feature | Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease (HFMD) | Chickenpox |
|---|---|---|
| Rash Location | Primarily on hands, feet, and in the mouth. May also appear on buttocks. | Typically starts on the trunk, face, and scalp, then spreads to the rest of the body. |
| Blister Appearance | Small, flat or raised red spots that may blister. Mouth sores are often painful ulcers. | Small, itchy, fluid-filled blisters that eventually scab over. |
| Cause | Coxsackievirus A16 and other enteroviruses. | Varicella-zoster virus (VZV). |
| Fever | Often present, but usually mild. | Can be present, sometimes higher than with HFMD. |
| Itchiness | Usually not very itchy. | Typically very itchy. |
| Contagiousness | Highly contagious. | Highly contagious. |
| Vaccine | No vaccine available. | Vaccine available and highly effective. |
In More Detail
-
Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease (HFMD): This viral illness is most common in children under 5 years old, but can affect older children and adults. The hallmark symptoms are painful sores in the mouth and a rash of small blisters or red spots on the hands and feet. A mild fever may also be present. HFMD is spread through close contact with infected individuals, respiratory droplets, or contaminated surfaces.
-
Chickenpox: Chickenpox is caused by the varicella-zoster virus (VZV). The characteristic symptom is an itchy rash of small, fluid-filled blisters that appear all over the body. A fever, headache, and fatigue may precede the rash. Chickenpox is highly contagious and spreads easily through the air via respiratory droplets or by direct contact with the blisters. A vaccine is available to prevent chickenpox.
When to See a Doctor
It's generally recommended to see a doctor for both HFMD and chickenpox to confirm the diagnosis and receive appropriate advice. While both illnesses are usually mild and self-limiting, complications can occur, especially in infants, pregnant women, and individuals with weakened immune systems.
