The incubation period is short for Bornholm Disease - a few days - but is highly contagious. The illness lasts about a week. On rare occasions, several recurrences of pain and fever over a period of three weeks or more can occur.

As with other viral infections, the best defense is a healthy body and healthy immune system. To reduce transmission be sure to effectively practice handwashing and hygiene. Also avoid sharing food and drink utensils.