Treatment FAQ

what is the treatment for roseola

by Trenton Runolfsdottir PhD Published 2 years ago Updated 2 years ago
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There's no specific treatment for roseola, although some doctors may prescribe the antiviral medication ganciclovir (Cytovene) to treat the infection in people with weakened immunity. Antibiotics aren't effective in treating viral illnesses, such as roseola.Jun 25, 2020

When is roseola no longer contagious?

Apr 09, 2020 · In most cases, roseola will go away within a week without professional medical treatment. While your child has a fever, keep her comfortable by dressing her in lightweight clothing. Make sure she gets lots of rest and plenty of fluids.

How long does diarrhea last with roseola?

There’s no specific treatment for the illness. Make sure your child rests and drinks plenty of liquids. You can give your child acetaminophen to reduce the fever, or ibuprofen elixir; there are infant drops that are labeled for use for children aged 2 to 3. Call your pediatrician for advice on dosages for younger children.

Is roseola contagious when the rash appears?

There is no specific treatment for roseola. The disease is usually mild and self-limiting. Rest, maintaining fluid intake and paracetamol for fever is all that is usually required. No treatment is necessary for the rash, as it does not itch or hurt and fades spontaneously.

When does a rash appear with roseola?

Sep 28, 2021 · Treatments for roseola There is no specific treatment for roseola. Over-the-counter pain relief medication such as acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil or Motrin) can usually control the...

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How do you treat roseola rash?

To help your child feel better until it does:Be sure he or she gets plenty of rest and fluids.Your child's healthcare provider may suggest giving acetaminophen or ibuprofen to help relieve fever or discomfort. ... An anti-itch medicine (antihistamine) may be recommended if the rash is itchy.

How did my child get roseola?

Roseola is caused by a type of herpes virus. The virus can enter the body through the nose and mouth. It is spread when a child breathes in droplets that contain the virus after an infected person coughs, sneezes, talks, or laughs.

How long does it take for roseola rash to go away?

Roseola rash goes away in 2-3 days. Some children with Roseola just have 3 days of fever without a rash.Jan 13, 2022

Does roseola go away on its own?

Roseola is a common viral infection in children under age 2. It is also known as sixth disease. Roseola is not a major health problem. It goes away on its own without treatment.

Can I get roseola from my child?

Like other viral illnesses, such as a common cold, roseola spreads from person to person through contact with an infected person's respiratory secretions or saliva. For example, a healthy child who shares a cup with a child who has roseola could contract the virus. Roseola is contagious even if no rash is present.Jun 25, 2020

How long does the roseola virus last?

Symptoms of roseola appear about ten days after infection. The first sign of illness is a high fever (often above 103° F or 39.5° C). This fever can last from three to seven days. Once the fever goes away, a rash often appears on their stomach that may spread to their back, neck and arms.Nov 16, 2020

What should I do if my child has roseola?

Most children recover fully from roseola within a week of the onset of the fever. With your doctor's advice, you can give your child over-the-counter medications to reduce fever, such as acetaminophen (Tylenol, others) or ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin, others). Use caution when giving aspirin to children or teenagers.Jun 25, 2020

Does roseola make babies sleepy?

Kids with roseola may be irritable and tired and have mild diarrhea, a poor appetite, red eyes, swollen eyelids, a runny nose, or a sore throat. The lymph nodes in their neck and at the base of the skull may also be swollen. Most don't appear especially ill, considering how high their fever gets.

Can baby with roseola take a bath?

Follow your doctor's orders for giving acetaminophen (Tylenol®) to control fever. Do not give more Tylenol® than your doctor recommends. It is best not to give your child a cool bath or sponge bath until after the Tylenol® has had a chance to work.

Can a child get roseola twice?

It is possible to have roseola more than once, but this is unusual, unless the person has a compromised immune system. Roseola is caused by two viruses in the herpes family: HHV, or human herpes virus, most often type 6 or occasionally type 7.Feb 15, 2022

How does adult get roseola?

Some adults who never had the infection in childhood, and those with compromised immune systems, may still be at risk of catching it. In most cases, roseola causes a high fever for a few days followed by a signature rash. The illness is contagious in the fever phase but not the rash phase.

Is roseola a form of measles?

Roseola and measles are two different diseases that present with a high fever and a rash. They are both most commonly seen in childhood, although measles can affect people of any age, and roseola in adults is very rare.

What are the symptoms of roseola?

Children with roseola may also develop cold- or flu-like symptoms, including: 1 Runny nose. 2 Slight cough. 3 Sore throat. 4 Swollen lymph nodes. 5 Upset stomach or diarrhea. 6 Seizure. This is generally a febrile seizure, or a seizure that is brought on by a quick rise in body temperature. This type of seizure is rarely harmful. However, you should call your doctor or seek emergency care if you believe that your child has had a seizure.

How long does roseola rash last?

It is made of pink or red spots and not itchy or painful. The rash can fade after a few hours but may be noticeable for one to two days. Children with roseola may also develop cold- or flu-like symptoms, including: Runny nose. Slight cough.

What is roseola infantum?

Roseola infantum is a viral illness that mostly affects infants and toddlers. Infected children generally have a high fever followed by the development of a rash.

Is Roseola a serious illness?

Roseola is an extremely common childhood virus that rarely causes serious problems. Symptoms usually improve with simple home treatment. You should contact your healthcare provider if your child has a febrile seizure, even though these seizures typically aren’t cause for concern.

How long does a fever last?

The first sign of illness is a high fever (often above 103° F or 39.5° C). This fever can last from three to seven days. Once the fever goes away, a rash often appears on their stomach that may spread to their back, neck and arms. It is made of pink or red spots and not itchy or painful.

Is a seizure a febrile seizure?

Seizure. This is generally a febrile seizure, or a seizure that is brought on by a quick rise in body temperature. This type of seizure is rarely harmful. However, you should call your doctor or seek emergency care if you believe that your child has had a seizure.

How long does it take for a child to be contagious?

After your child’s temperature is back to normal for 24 hours, your child is no longer contagious (even if the rash is still there). A normal temperature ranges between 97.5° F and 99.5° F (35.4° C and 37.5° C). A fever is a temperature at or above 100.4° F (38° C).

What are the symptoms of roseola?

The rash is either flat or raised lesions on the abdomen. It then spreads to the face, arms, and legs. Your child may also have symptoms such as: Irritability. Swelling of the eyelids. Swollen glands. Ear pain. Decreased appetite. Febrile seizures are fairly common in children with roseola.

How long does it take for roseola to go away?

It most commonly affects children under 2 years of age. It may take 5 to 15 days for a child to have symptoms of roseola after being exposed to the virus. A high fever may start suddenly and may reach 105°F. The fever lasts 3 to 5 days and then suddenly goes away.

What causes roseola in children?

What causes roseola in a child? Roseola is caused by a type of herpes virus. The virus can enter the body through the nose and mouth. It is spread when a child breathes in droplets that contain the virus after an infected person coughs, sneezes, talks, or laughs.

How long does it take for roseola to show up in a child?

What are the symptoms of roseola in a child? It may take 5 to 15 days for a child to have symptoms of roseola after being exposed to the virus. A high fever may start suddenly and may reach 105°F. A child is most contagious during the high fever, before the rash occurs.

What to give a child with a fever?

Giving acetaminophen or ibuprofen for fever and discomfort. Dressing your child in lightweight clothing during the fever. Talk with your child’s healthcare providers about the risks, benefits, and possible side effects of all medicines.

Is a febrile seizure dangerous?

Febrile seizures are generally not harmful. But they can be very scary. Not every child with a high temperature is at risk for a febrile seizure. Febrile seizures occur in about 3 in 100 children under the age of 5. This type of seizure may run in families.

What is the best medicine for roseola fever?

Roseola treatments that your healthcare provider may recommend include an over-the-counter drug, such as acetaminophen, to help reduce the fever, or an antiviral medication.

How long does roseola last?

Has a fever that lasts more than seven days. Has a rash that persists beyond three days.

What is roseola infantum?

Roseola is a common and generally mild viral illness that can affect babies and toddlers. It’s sometimes called sixth disease or roseola infantum, and it’s usually not something you need to worry too much about. Roseola typically causes a few days of fever, which is sometimes followed by a rash, but in mild cases, you may not notice any symptoms at all. Read on to find out more about what roseola is, to learn the signs and symptoms, and for some tips that will help you assess when it may be a good idea to contact your healthcare provider.

How long does it take for a child to show signs of a virus?

If your child has been infected, it can take about one to two weeks for visible signs to appear. Though it's possible that no symptoms will appear at all, some symptoms that could appear might include:

Where does a rash start?

The rash may start on your child’s chest, back, and abdomen, and it can then spread to the neck and arms. Sometimes it may spread to the legs or face. Though it may look a little scary, the rash isn't itchy or uncomfortable.

What is roseola virus?

What Is Roseola? Roseola is a viral infection caused by two common strains of the human herpes virus. Older infants between 6 and 15 months are at the greatest risk of contracting roseola because they have not yet built up antibodies that help fight viruses, but it can commonly affect children up to age 2.

How long does it take for roseola to go away?

Has a weaker immune system, placing him at greater risk of complications relating to the fever. In most cases roseola will resolve within a week, but in the meantime, keep your child comfortable with home treatments. Make sure he gets lots of rest and plenty of fluids.

What to do if you have roseola?

Call your doctor. If your immune system is compromised and you come in contact with someone who has roseola, contact your doctor. You may need monitoring for a possible infection that, for you, could be more severe than it is for a child.

What is roseola in children?

Roseola is a generally mild infection that usually affects children by age 2. It occasionally affects adults. Roseola is so common that most children have been infected with roseola by the time they enter kindergarten. Two common strains of the herpes virus cause roseola. The condition typically causes several days of fever, followed by a rash.

How to tell if you have roseola?

Symptoms. Roseola is a childhood illness caused by two strains of herpes virus. Common signs of roseola are fever and a rash on the trunk and neck. If your child is exposed to someone with roseola and becomes infected with the virus, it generally takes a week or two for signs and symptoms of infection to appear — if they appear at all.

Is roseola a serious illness?

Some children develop only a very mild case of roseola and never show any clear indication of illness, while others experience the full range of signs and symptoms. Roseola typically isn't serious. Rarely, a very high fever can result in complications.

What is the fever of roseola?

Fever. Roseola typically starts with a sudden, high fever — often greater than 103 F (39.4 C). Some children also may have a sore throat, runny nose or cough along with or preceding the fever. Your child may also develop swollen lymph nodes in his or her neck along with the fever.

How long does roseola rash last?

It may or may not reach the legs and face. The rash, which isn't itchy or uncomfortable, can last from several hours to several days before fading. Other signs and symptoms of roseola may include: Irritability in infants and children.

Can a child have a fever?

Your child could have a convulsion (febrile seizure) if his or her fever becomes high or spikes quickly. However, usually by the time you notice your child's high temperature, the threat of a possible seizure has already passed. If your child does have an unexplained seizure, seek medical care immediately.

What are the complications of roseola?

Complications are rare with roseola in most children. The most common complication is febrile seizures/ convulsions that may occur in 5–15% of children. These are triggered by the high fevers of roseola and may be alarming when seen for the first time. Signs of a febrile seizure include: 1 Loss of consciousness 2 Jerking or twitching movements in the arms, legs or face for 2 to 3 minutes 3 Wet or soiled pants in an unconscious, toilet-trained child 4 Irritability

What is roseola virus?

What is roseola? Roseola is a disease caused by the human herpes virus type 6B (HHV-6B) and possibly type 7 (HHV-7). These herpes viruses have only been identified in recent years, and we are still learning about the full range of diseases caused by them.

How long does roseola fever last?

Roseola is characterised by high fever lasting for 3–5 days, runny nose, irritability and tiredness. As the fever subsides a rash ( exanthem) may appear on the face and body. Roseola is also known by the names roseola infantum and exanthem subitum. See more images of roseola.

Can roseola cause seizures?

Complications are rare with roseola in most children. The most common complication is febrile seizures/ convulsions that may occur in 5–15% of children. These are triggered by the high fevers of roseola and may be alarming when seen for the first time. Signs of a febrile seizure include: Loss of consciousness.

What are the red spots on the neck?

Typically small rose-pink or red raised spots (2–5 mm in diameter) that blanch (turn white) when touched. Some spots may be surrounded by a lighter halo of pale skin. Mainly affects trunk and rarely spreads to involve the neck, face, arms and legs. Similar spots occur on soft palate and uvula (Nagayama spots)

How long does it take for a fever to subside?

High fever (often up to 40 C) for 3–5 days. Upper respiratory symptoms such as a sore throat, cough, runny nose or congestion. Irritability and tiredness. The rash appears around days 3 to 5, as fever subsides. Typically small rose-pink or red raised spots (2–5 mm in diameter) that blanch (turn white) when touched.

Can a child have a fever without a fever?

In some cases, a child may be infected with the virus and never develop the rash. Less commonly, the rash may appear without a preceding fever. In most cases, particularly if fever is low, the child is well. In about 5–15% of young children, high fevers may trigger febrile seizures.

What is the best medicine for roseola fever?

for roseola. Over-the-counter pain relief medication such as acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil) can usually control the fever. It is important to check the dosage carefully and be sure that it is appropriate for the baby or toddler.

What causes roseola?

Two strains of the herpes virus, HHV-6 or HHV-7#N#Trusted Source#N#, cause roseola. The virus multiplies in the salivary glands and saliva can transmit it to others.#N#The virus attaches#N#Trusted Source#N#to the salivary glands and brain tissue, remaining in the body after the baby or toddler recovers from roseola symptoms.

What are the symptoms of roseola?

Roseola usually affects toddlers and babies under 2 years old. They may also have or show: 1 general discomfort 2 irritability 3 an unwillingness to eat 4 diarrhea 5 a cough 6 swelling or redness around the eyes 7 inflamed eardrums 8 swollen lymph nodes

What is roseola infantum?

Roseola infantum is an infection caused by a type of herpes virus. It typically affects babies and toddlers. Other names for this health issue are sixth disease, exanthema subitum, or just “roseola.”. Around 90%. Trusted Source. of roseola cases occur before 2 years of age.

How long does it take for a roseola rash to appear?

Rash appearance. The roseola rash tends to appear. Trusted Source. as the fever is diminishing or after it has passed, which usually takes 3–5 days. The rash tends to appear on the torso and may spread to the face and limbs. Children with measles, on the other hand, usually have a rash before a fever.

What does roseola rash look like?

The roseola rash may look like a raised, flat area of skin. Or, it may be raised patches of flat bumps that may merge together. In some babies, the rash is reddish, and it may turn a lighter color when a person applies pressure. There can sometimes be a paler “halo” around the rash area.

How long does roseola last?

Roseola is an infection that typically affects babies and toddlers. It causes a high fever that lasts for 3–5 days, then a rash for a day or two. There is no specific treatment or vaccine.

What is the best medicine for roseola?

the antiviral drug ganciclovir (Cytovene) to treat roseola. You can help keep your child comfortable by dressing them in cool clothing, giving them a sponge bath, or offering them cool treats such as popsicles. Learn more: How to treat your baby’s fever ».

How long does it take for roseola to spread?

The incubation period for roseola is about 14 days. This means a child with roseola who hasn’t yet developed symptoms can easily spread the infection to another child.

How to tell if a child has a fever?

Call your child’s doctor if they: 1 have a fever higher than 103°F (39.4°C) 2 have a rash that hasn’t improved after three days 3 have a fever that lasts longer than seven days 4 have symptoms that worsen or don’t improve 5 stop drinking fluids 6 seem unusually sleepy or otherwise very ill

Why is roseola so hard to diagnose?

Roseola can sometimes be difficult to diagnose because its symptoms mimic those of other common illnesses in kids. Also, because the fever comes and then resolves before the rash appears, roseola is usually diagnosed only after the fever is gone and your child is feeling better.

What temperature is roseola?

A fever is considered high if your child’s temperature is between 102 and 105°F (38.8-40.5°C).

What is the difference between roseola and measles?

Some people confuse the roseola skin rash with the measles skin rash. However, these rashes are distinctly different. The measles rash is red or reddish-brown. It usually starts on the face and works its way down, ultimately covering the entire body with blotches of bumps.

Can you give roseola to a child?

Doctors don’t prescribe antibiotic drugs for roseola because it’s caused by a virus. Antibiotics only work to treat illnesses caused by bacteria. Your doctor might tell you to give your child over-the-counter medicines, such as acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) to help lower fever and reduce pain.

How do you know if you have roseola?

Diagnosis and Treatment. A doctor usually knows your child has roseola because of the telltale symptoms: high fever followed by rash. Usually, no lab tests are needed. Since it’s caused by a virus, antibiotics won’t help cure it. So, your child’s doctor will likely just treat their symptoms to make them more comfortable.

What age does roseola come out?

Roseola is a common virus that infects children under age 2. Most of the time, it’s nothing to worry about, and kids get better on their own. It's also sometimes called “sixth disease.”.

What to do if your child has a high fever?

For high fever, they might recommend acetaminophen or ibuprofen. If your child develops other symptoms or becomes very sick, they may order blood or urine tests. Roseola is contagious, so your doctor will tell you to keep your child away from others, at least until the fever goes away.

How long does a fever last in a child?

When symptoms do appear, the first thing you’ll notice is a sudden, high fever (over 103 F) that lasts or can come and go for 3-7 days. Other than the fever, your child might seem healthy. They may be restless or irritable.

How old is the most likely to get herpes?

It remains in the child’s body but usually remains latent, or turned off. It’s most common in infants and children between 6 and 24 months old.

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Diagnosis

A viral infection that is common among children causing fever and rash.
Condition Highlight
Urgent medical attention is usually recommended by healthcare providers
Condition Highlight
Certain types can be dangerous or life threatening
How common is condition?
Very common (More than 3 million cases per year in US)
Does diagnosis require lab test or imaging?
Rarely requires lab test or imaging
Time taken for recovery
Can last several days or weeks
How is condition transmitted?
Transmitted through direct contact
Condition Highlight
Common for ages 5 and younger

Lifestyle and Home Remedies

Coping and Support

Preparing For Your Appointment

Overview

  • Roseola can be difficult to diagnose because initial signs and symptoms are similar to those of other common childhood illnesses. If your child has a fever and it's clear that no cold, ear infection, strep throat or other common condition is present, your doctor may wait to see if the c…
See more on mayoclinic.org

Symptoms

  • Like most viruses, roseola just needs to run its course. Once the fever subsides, your child should feel better soon. However, a fever can make your child uncomfortable. To treat your child's fever at home, your doctor may recommend: 1. Plenty of rest.Let your child rest in bed until the fever disappears. 2. Plenty of fluids.Encourage your child to drink clear fluids, such as water, ginger al…
See more on mayoclinic.org

Causes

  • Roseola will likely keep your child home for a few days. When staying home with your child, plan low-key activities that you both will enjoy. If your child is sick and you need to return to work, recruit help from your partner or from other relatives and friends.
See more on mayoclinic.org

Risk Factors

  • Make an appointment with your child's doctor if your child has a rash that doesn't improve after a few days, or if your child has a fever that lasts more than a week or exceeds 103 F (39.4 C). Here's some information to help you get ready for your appointment, as well as what to expect from your doctor.
See more on mayoclinic.org

Complications

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Roseola is a generally mild infection that usually affects children by age 2. It occasionally affects adults. Roseola is so common that most children have been infected with roseola by the time they enter kindergarten. Two common strains of the herpes virus cause roseola. The condition typically causes several days of fev…
See more on mayoclinic.org

Prevention

  • If your child is exposed to someone with roseola and becomes infected with the virus, it generally takes a week or two for signs and symptoms of infection to appear — if they appear at all. It's possible to become infected with roseola, but have signs and symptoms too mild to be readily noticeable. Roseola symptoms may include: 1. Fever.Roseola typically starts with a sudden, hig…
See more on mayoclinic.org

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