Hand, foot, and mouth disease on the rise

MEMPHIS, Tenn. -- Hand, foot, and mouth disease is very contagious and typically peaks around this time of year.

Although experts say serious complications associated with the illness are rare, it’s best to be proactive and aware of “What’s Going Around?”

Symptoms of hand, foot, and mouth disease may include sudden onset of fever, sore throat, painful mouth blisters, and rashes on hands and feet.

The illness is common in children under 5 years old, but anyone can get it.

“Parents should know that if their kid has symptoms and a fever, try to keep them out of school. At least, you know, for a little the beginning of that period of the illness, when they're most contagious,” said Dr. Nick Hysmith, Medical Director of Infection Prevention, Le Bonheur Children’s Hospital.

Just last week,