Hand, foot and mouth disease (HFMD) is a common illness in children caused by certain enteroviruses. It usually begins with fever and sore throat and then causes painful sores in the mouth and a non-itchy rash on the hands, feet, and buttocks. The disease spreads through contact with infected bodily fluids or contaminated surfaces. Prevention involves frequent hand washing, covering coughs and sneezes, disinfecting surfaces, and avoiding contact with infected individuals.