There is no specific treatment for the infection other than symptomatic relief of symptoms.

Treatment with antibiotics is not effective, and is not indicated. Acetaminophen or Ibuprofen can be used to treat fever. Aspirin should not be used in viral illnesses in children under age 12 years.

Salt water mouth rinses (1/2 teaspoon of salt to 1 glass of warm water) may be soothing if the child is able to rinse without swallowing. Ensure an adequate fluid intake because swallowing may be painful. Extra fluid is needed when a fever is present. The best fluids are cold milk products, especially ice cream. Many children refuse juices and sodas, for example, because their acidity causes burning pain in the ulcers.

Generally, complete recovery occurs in 5 to 7 days.

• Dehydration can occur because the mouth lesions can cause pain with swallowing.
• Possible convulsions with high fever (febrile seizures).

Apply home treatment and call the health care provider if there are signs of complications, such as pain in neck or arms and legs. Other times to call include: when a high fever is not reduced by medication, signs of dehydration occur such as dry skin and mucus membranes, weight loss, irritability, lethargy, and decreased or dark urine.

Emergency symptoms include convulsions.