Contagious Rashes - Roseola Infantum
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Roseola infantum is a viral infection caused by the human herpes virus 6 (HHV-6), which is characterised by a sudden high fever and rash.
A small portion of children with roseola infantum may experience convulsions due to the high fever (febrile convulsion).
The roseola infantum infections normally affects babies and toddlers between 6 months to three years old.
Roseola infantum is known as exanthem subitum or sixth disease.
Roseola infantum has an incubation period of: 5-15 days
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- Fever - raised body temperature (fever) of 39.5°C-40.5°C (103°F-105°F) that lasts about four days
- Rash - a pink-red flat rash that develops all over he body when the fever ends. The rash turns white when pressed. The rash lasts about 1-2 days
- Swollen glands - the lymph glands may be swollen
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- See a doctor - any child with suspected roseola infantum needs to see a doctor who can perform an examination to diagnose this condition
- Reduce the fever - use a cool compress, cool sponging, cool bath and cool drinks to reduce the fever
- Fluids - plenty of fluids (water, natural juice)
- Medication - the doctor may advise giving the baby paracetemol or ibuprofen to reduce the fever
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Last reviewed: 3 July 2009 || Last updated: 6 October 2009
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NOTE: Mega doses of vitamins, minerals, amino acids, or other supplements cannot cure illnesses and in fact can be very dangerous and produce toxic side effects and interfere with medicine you are taking. Always ensure you consult your doctor before taking any type of nutrient supplement.
Disclaimer: This guide is not intended to be used for diagnostic or prescriptive purposes. For any treatment or diagnosis of illness, please see your doctor.