Maryland Reports Increase in Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease Cases
ANNAPOLIS, MD (7News) – maryland is experiencing a rise in cases of Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease (HFMD), a common and contagious illness primarily affecting young children. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports HFMD typically causes fever, mouth sores, and a skin rash.
According to data provided to 7News by Maryland officials, reported cases have fluctuated in recent years: 74 in 2022, 145 in 2023, 48 in 2024, and 118 so far in 2025.
Dr. Emily Boss, Director of Pediatric Otolaryngology at Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, explained the vulnerability of young children.”it’s most commonly seen… in daycares and schools and kids who are under five, mostly because they have developing immune systems and it’s such a highly contagious virus that that’s their first exposure,” she said.
Dr. Boss also noted that the increase in cases may be partially attributed to improved reporting and greater awareness. She added, “The enteroviruses in particular - that’s the group of viruses that cause Hand, Foot and Mouth- they tend to thrive in these warmer environments and climate. So late summer and early fall are very common.”
HFMD is caused by different strains of the virus, meaning children can contract the illness multiple times. While typically resolving within seven to ten days, Dr. Boss reassured parents, “This is not a very severe disease. So if you’re to see it, don’t panic.”