Roseola is caused by the human herpesvirus 6 (HVH-6) and mainly affects children between 2 months and 2 years old.
Passing it on
Roseola is contagious and spreads through tiny drops of fluid from the nose and throat of infected people. These drops are expelled when an infected person talks, laughs, sneezes, or coughs. Other people who breathe the drops in or touch them and then touch their own noses or mouths can then also become infected.
Symptoms
The signs and symptoms of roseola vary depending upon the age of the patient. Infants and toddlers will develop sudden symptoms with a sudden high fever (39 C or higher) that lasts for three to five days, irritability, bulging "soft spot" on the head (fontanel), swollen glands in the front or back of the neck, runny nose, puffy eyelids (due to swelling with fluid), and mild diarrhea. Within 12-24 hours of the fever breaking, a rash rapidly appears. Older children who develop roseola are more likely to have an illness characterized by several days of high fever and possibly a runny nose and/or diarrhea. Older children less commonly develop a rash as the fever abates.
If the fever reaches 40° or higher, the child could start to have convulsions. With any child, especially a baby, having a high fever is always best to consult a doctor immediately.
Outbreak
The outbreak of many little spots, rashes and pimples will most often be on the child’s neck, back and chest. One of the main characteristics of Roseola is that if you press on the rash with your finger, the rash beneath the pressure point will whiten. The outbreak does not cause itching and disappears about two days later.
Treatment
Acetaminophen (such as Tylenol) or ibuprofen (such as Advil or Motrin) can help to reduce the fever. To prevent dehydration from the fever, encourage your child to drink clear fluids such as water with ice chips, children's electrolyte solutions, flat sodas or clear broth. If you're still breastfeeding, breast milk can help prevent dehydration as well. Roseola usually disappears in a week without any complications.
Vaccine
There is no vaccine for Roseola.
Pregnancy
No complications with pregnancies have been reported. Nonetheless, it is better to keep away from people with the disease while you are pregnant.
This article does not replace medical advice in any way, shape or form. It is presented to you as general information only.
Source: kidshealth.org
