What is roseola?
Roseola is a rash caused by the human herpesvirus-6. The
rash lasts 1 or 2 days, then it disappears. It happens to
children between 6 months and 3 years old. Your child
has roseola if:
Your child has a fine pink rash, mostly on middle part of
the body.
Your child had a high fever 2 to 4 days before the rash
appeared. When the rash appeared, your child's fever went
away.
Your child was only a little sick during the time with
fever and acts fine now.
How long does it last?
The rash lasts 1 or 2 days, followed by complete recovery.
Some children have 3 days of fever without a rash.
How can I take care of my child?
No particular treatment is necessary. Roseola can be spread
to another child until the rash is gone. Other children of
this age who have been with your child may come down with
roseola in about 12 days.
When should I call my child's health care provider?
Call IMMEDIATELY if:
Call during office hours if:
The rash lasts more than 3 days.
The fever lasts more than 4 days.
You have other questions or concerns.
