Hand foot and mouth in younger son, older son has birthday party

[Countrylifemama]

My younger son has caught hand foot and mouth. Saw spots on Wednesday but though it may have been heat rash, but on Thursday we saw a few more flat blistery ones.

Doctors confirmed HF&M my worry is that my son has a birthday party next weekend 😫 Do I cancel it? should I tell the parents and other guests??

Will he be less contagious by then? So stressed out as its my older sons first big party...

Bumping.. Anyone?

My DS is just getting over hf&m it's horrible, I think I read that they are most contagious before the spots actually come out.

I don't think I'd cancel the party but perhaps if you're friendly enough you could mention it to the other parents and let them make the decision if they want to send their kids.

Has your older DS had hf&m before?

No older hasn't, doctor said that he may have without you noticing as it can be mild in some. There's around 40 kids coming but figured I could play it by ear nearer to the weekend 😞😖 how long after will he be over the spots is it 7-10 days and he's clear of it? X

Thanks

I wouldn't cancel it as he's unlikely to still be contagious by next weekend. If your older son comes out in spots though, you'll need to let the other parents know - also he might not be well enough for a party.
As an aside - 40 kids at a party!?

Hahaha I know just started reception so thought we'd invite the classes 😅

Hi! First big hugs for your lo as he must feel pretty miserable!

It's a tricky one - you could go ahead with the party but get someone to look after your youngest elsewhere if he's still unwell or contagious. I guess the issue is will your eldest one come out with it between now and then?

Could you contact the venue today and ask about switching the date (explaining why of course). That way you could move it back a few weeks in case your older son does come out with the spots/blisters. Of course he won't see the practicality of that unless he actually does get ill (but then it will be too late to move it).

I don't know the incubation period for hand, foot & mouth - have you checked on NHS Direct to see what that says?

Good luck with the party though whatever you choose!