When one of your children is diagnosed with Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease (HFMD), it can be stressful for the whole family. HFMD is highly contagious, especially among young children, and it spreads easily through saliva, mucus, blister fluid, and even contaminated surfaces. But the good news is—there are practical steps you can take to protect yourself and other family members from getting infected. This guide shares five smart, simple tricks you can apply immediately to stop HFMD from spreading in your home.
1. Isolate the Infected Child (with care and love)
Isolation sounds scary, but in this case, it’s a form of care—for your sick child and the rest of the family. HFMD is most contagious during the first week of illness, so creating a safe and separate space is crucial.
- Let your child rest in a designated room or area away from other siblings.
- Use separate utensils, towels, and bedding for the infected child.
- Limit the child’s contact with elderly family members and infants.
- Try to keep one consistent caregiver to reduce the chance of wider exposure.
Isolation doesn’t mean neglect—comfort and monitor your child closely while minimizing contact with others.
Good hand hygiene is one of the most effective ways to prevent the spread of HFMD. The virus can live on hands and surfaces for hours.
- Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially:
- After changing diapers
- After wiping the child’s nose or drool
- Before and after meals
- After cleaning any contaminated items
- Encourage children to wash their hands regularly too (make it fun with songs or games!)
- If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-free hand sanitizer that’s safe for kids.
Make handwashing a household habit—consistent hygiene protects everyone.
2. Practice Frequent and Proper Hand Hygiene
3. Disinfect Commonly Touched Surfaces Daily
HFMD viruses can survive on solid surfaces like doorknobs, tabletops, and toys for days. This makes regular disinfection critical, especially when there is an active case in the home.
Focus on high-touch areas, such as:
- Doorknobs and light switches
- Remote controls and mobile phones
- Tabletops, high chairs, and counters
- Toilet seats and flush handles
- Toys and learning tools (especially if shared among kids)
Use a surface sanitizer that is proven to be effective against viruses, including HFMD and influenza.
Even among siblings, it’s important to draw the line when it comes to personal belongings during an active HFMD case.
- Do not share cups, straws, eating utensils, pacifiers, or toothbrushes.
- Keep toys, pillows, and books separate.
- Label your infected child’s items if necessary to prevent mix-ups.
HFMD spreads through saliva and fluid from blisters—so anything that touches the mouth or skin should be kept personal until your child has fully recovered.
4. Avoid Sharing Personal Items
5. Keep the Air Circulating and Maintain Cleanliness
A clean and well-ventilated home can help reduce the viral load in the air and create a healthier recovery space.
- Open windows and doors where possible to improve airflow.
- Use an air purifier if your household has one.
- Wash linens, towels, and clothing in hot water.
- Dispose of tissues, gloves, and diapers in a closed-lid bin.
It’s not just about cleanliness—it’s about removing potential virus-carrying particles from your environment.
How BerryC Sanitizer Spray Can Help Your Home Stay Protected
To further strengthen your home’s defense against HFMD, COVID-19, and other infectious viruses, consider using BerryC Sanitizer Spray—a reliable and effective surface sanitizer trusted by thousands of Malaysian families.
Here’s why BerryC Sanitizer Spray is ideal for homes with young children:
- Up to 28 Days Protection
Once applied to solid surfaces, BerryC Sanitizer Spray forms a protective layer that continuously eliminates bacteria and germs for up to 28 days.
- Proven Against HFMD, COVID-19, and Influenza
The formula is lab-tested and proven to destroy viruses that cause serious illnesses in children and adults alike.
- Perfect for High-Contact Spots
Spray on door handles, light switches, dining tables, remote controls, and bathroom surfaces. It’s especially recommended to apply daily on surfaces touched by an HFMD patient, such as chairs, tabletops, toys, and bedframes.
- Safe and Easy to Use
No need to wipe—just spray and leave it. The formulation is non-toxic, alcohol-free, and safe for families with kids.
By incorporating BerryC Sanitizer Spray into your daily routine during an HFMD outbreak, you’re not just cleaning—you’re building a protective shield around your loved ones.
- Up to 28 Days Protection
Conclusion
HFMD can be overwhelming, but prevention starts at home. By isolating the infected child, maintaining excellent hygiene, disinfecting frequently touched surfaces, avoiding shared items, and keeping your environment clean, you can stop the virus from spreading further in your family.
Add BerryC Sanitizer Spray to your daily routine as an added layer of protection during this critical time. A few mindful actions can make a big difference in keeping your family safe and healthy.
Stay calm, stay clean—and stay protected.
