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What is herpangina?

Herpangina is an illness caused by a virus, characterized by small blister-like bumps or ulcers that appear in the mouth, usually in the back of throat or the roof of the mouth. If your child has herpangina, she will probably have a high fever. Herpangina is very contagious and is usually seen in children between the ages of 1 and 4. It's seen most often in the summer and fall.

You can help prevent your child from getting herpangina by ensuing that her hands are kept clean. If your child has herpangina, good handwashing is also necessary to help prevent the spread of the disease.

Symptoms & Causes

What are the symptoms of herpangina?

The following are the most common symptoms of herpangina. However, each child may experience symptoms differently.

  • blister-like bumps in the mouth, usually in the back of the throat and on the roof of the mouth
  • headache
  • quick onset of fever
  • high fever, sometimes up to 106F
  • pain in the mouth or throat
  • drooling
  • decrease in appetite

What causes herpangina?

Herpangina is caused by a virus. The most common viruses that cause herpangina are:

  • coxsackie virus
  • echovirus

Diagnosis & Treatments

How do we diagnose herpangina?

Herpangina is usually diagnosed based on a complete history and physical examination of your child. The lesions of herpangina are unique and usually allow for a diagnosis simply on physical examination.

How do we treat herpangina?

The goal of treatment for herpangina is to help decrease the severity of the symptoms. Since it's a viral infection, antibiotics are ineffective. Treatment for your child may include:

  • increased fluid intake
  • acetaminophen for any fever

Programs & Services

Departments

Division of General Pediatrics

Department

Boston Children's Hospital - Division of General Pediatrics