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Roseola

Authors:
  • Cynthia M. Johnson, MA
Publication Type:

Condition

Roseola

(Exanthem Subitum; Roseola Infantum)

Definition

Roseola is a viral infection. It starts with a sudden, high fever. A rash follows.

Roseola.

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Causes

Certain herpes viruses cause roseola. Children get it from the saliva of people who carry the infection. It can be spread by:

  • Kissing or other close contact
  • Droplets from coughs or sneezes

Risk Factors

Roseola is more common in children under 3 years of age. The risk is higher among children in close contact with one another.

Symptoms

Common symptoms are:

  • A sudden, high fever:
    • 103°F to 105°F (39.4°C to 40.5°C)—may cause seizures in some children
    • Lasts 3 to 5 days
  • A rose-colored rash:
    • Starts within 3 days after the fever
    • On the chest and belly first, then may spread
    • Lasts for a few hours to a few days
    • Does not itch
  • Other symptoms:
    • Swollen glands in the neck
    • Fussiness
    • Lack of hunger

Diagnosis

The doctor will ask about your child’s symptoms and health history. A physical exam will be done. This is enough to make the diagnosis.

Treatment

Roseola goes away on its own in a few days. The goal of treatment is to ease symptoms. The doctor may advise medicines to lower the child’s fever.

Prevention

The risk of roseola may be lowered by having children:

  • Wash their hands often
  • Stay away from other children who have it
RESOURCES:

CANADIAN RESOURCES:

CANADIAN RESOURCES:

References

  • Ko H, Shin S, et al. Predicting factors of roseola infantum infected with human herpesvirus 6 from urinary tract infection. Child Kidney Dis 2016; 20(2): 69-73.
  • Roseola infantum. Healthy Children—American Academy of Pediatrics website. Available at: https://www.healthychildren.org/English/health-issues/conditions/skin/Pages/Roseola-Infantum.aspx.
  • Roseola. Nemour Kids Health website. Available at: https://kidshealth.org/en/parents/roseola.html.
  • Roseola. Patient website. Available at: https://patient.info/health/viral-rashes/roseola.
  • Roseola infantum. EBSCO DynaMed website. Available at: https://www.dynamed.com/condition/roseola-infantum.

Contributors

  • David L. Horn, MD, FACP
Last Updated:
2022-09-01

(C) Copyright 2022 EBSCO Information Services

This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.