Roseola

Roseola is a common viral childhood illness (Read about "Microorganisms"), so common that the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) says almost all children have been infected by kindergarten age. Roseola is also called sixth disease and is caused by human herpesvirus 6 and human herpesvirus 7. (Read about "Herpes") Symptoms could include:

• high fever that usually lasts for 3-7 days
• cold or flu-like symptoms such as a runny nose or swollen glands

The fever is usually followed by a splotchy rash (Read about "Skin Rash") that starts on the child's stomach and may spread to the face, neck and arms. Roseola is contagious. According to AAP, it is best to keep infected children away from others. Since roseola is a viral infection, antibiotics (Read about "Antibiotics") are ineffective and there is no specific medication available to treat the disease. AAP says the primary goal for treating roseola is managing the symptoms. These include:

• rest
• fluids to avoid dehydration (Read about "Dehydration")
• acetaminophen or ibuprofen to reduce fever
• lukewarm sponge baths

On rare occasions, complications from roseola develop. These include:

• seizures (Read about "Seizures")
• encephalitis in children with weakened immune systems (Read about "Encephalitis & Meningitis" "The Immune System")

If your child has a seizure, you should seek immediate medical care.

AAP says if a child returns to normal eating and playing patterns after the fever is over, parents don't need to worry. However, if a child continues to act ill after the fever has dropped, it could be serious, and AAP recommends seeing a doctor. You should also contact your doctor if the fever persists or other symptoms develop.

Related Information:

    Skin

    Skin Care

    Molluscum Contagiosum

    Hand, Foot & Mouth Disease

    Impetigo

    Fifth Disease