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Roseola

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Contents of this page:

Illustrations

Roseola
Roseola
Temperature measurement
Temperature measurement

Definition    Return to top

Roseola is an acute disease of infants and young children that is characterized by a high fever and skin rash.

Causes    Return to top

The disease is common in children 3 months to 4 years old, and most common in those between 6 months and 1 year. It is caused by a virus called human herpesvirus 6 (HHV-6), although similar syndromes are possible with other viruses.

Roseola occurs throughout the year. The incubation period (the time between becoming infected and the beginning of symptoms)  is 5 to 15 days. A fever lasting 3 (sometimes up to 7) days generally comes before the rash appears. The fever may be as high as 105 degrees Fahrenheit.

Roseola begins with a high fever that generally responds well to acetaminophen (Tylenol). Between the 2nd and 4th day of illness, the fever falls dramatically, and a rash appears (often as the fever falls) on the trunk and spreads to the limbs, neck, and face. The rash lasts from a few hours to 2 days.

Symptoms    Return to top

Exams and Tests    Return to top

Treatment    Return to top

There is no specific treatment. The disease usually resolves without complications. Measures should be taken to control a fever. Acetaminophen and cool sponge baths may be given. If convulsions occur, call your health care provider, or go to the closest emergency room.

Outlook (Prognosis)    Return to top

The vast majority of children with roseola fully recover.

Possible Complications    Return to top

When to Contact a Medical Professional    Return to top

Call your health care provider if your child's fever does not go down after the child has been given acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil) and a warm bath, or if the child continues to appear very sick, or act irritable or lethargic.

Go to the emergency room or call the local emergency number (such as 911) if convulsions develop.

Prevention    Return to top

The viruses that cause roseola are spread either through fecal-oral contact or via airborne droplets. Careful handwashing can aid in the prevention of spread of these viruses.

Update Date: 11/18/2005

Updated by: John Goldenring, MD, MPH, Department of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital, San Diego, CA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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