The rash usually develops just as the fever resolves.
Home remedies usually include rest and fluids.
This article discusses roseola, its common symptoms, and when to call a healthcare provider.
Margarita-Young/ Getty Images
The rash then spreads to the arms, legs, neck, and face.
The rash usually appears as pink or red spots on light skin.
On darker skin, the rash may be harder to see.
Reproduced with permission from © DermNet dermnetnz.org 2023
This photo contains content that some people may find graphic or disturbing.
Reproduced with permission from DermNet dermnetnz.org 2023
Whats the Link?
Other types of HSVs causecold soresorgenital herpes.
When other children breathe the same air or touch the same surfaces, they are exposed to roseola.
Most children are most contagious during the fever phase of the illness.
Rapidly rising body temperatures can trigger seizures.
This happens in 10% to 15% of young children with high fevers.
Symptoms in Adults
Roseola is not common in adolescents or adults, but it is possible.
Adults may also notice a sore throat andswollen lymph nodes(lymphadenopathy) in the neck.
Home Treatment for Rash-Related Roseola
Most people with roseola can treat it safely at home.
Medical care is usually unnecessary, and antibiotics are ineffective.
To help comfort them, provide plenty of opportunities for rest and hydration.
Consider giving them over-the-counter medications if necessary.
Roseola Rash: Symptom Duration
A fever triggered by roseola usually lasts between three and seven days.
After the fever breaks, a rash develops for about 24 hours.
When a child is exposed to roseola, they will usually develop symptoms seven to 14 days later.
This is known as theincubation period(the time that elapses between exposure and when symptoms appear).
After the fever breaks, they are much less contagious.
It is OK if they still have a rash.
However, there are times when you or your child may require a healthcare provider’s visit.
Call your provider if you or your child experience:
There is no guaranteed way to prevent roseola.
To lower your risk, practice regular handwashing and encourage handwashing with your children.
Summary
Roseola is a viral illness that usually causes a high fever followed by a rash.
The rash often lasts about a day and is not itchy or painful.
Roseola is most common in infants and young children.
Although rare, older children, adolescents, and adults can also get roseola.
Most people with roseola do not require medical treatment.
Home remedies usually include rest, fluids, and over-the-counter medications.
Call your healthcare provider if you or your child experiences seizures.
Pippin M, Laws G.A classic presentation of roseola infantum.Cureus.
2024;16(1):e52504.
doi:10.7759/cureus.52504
National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke.Febrile seizures.
American Academy of Pediatrics.Roseola infantum.
