What is Roseola?

Roseola is a viral illness that commonly affects kids between 6 months and 2 years old. It is also called as the Sixth Disease, Exanthema Subitum, and Roseola Infantum.  It is contagious and it spreads when a child with roseola talks, sneezes, coughs.

Causes

It is caused by Human Herpesvirus (HHV) type 6 and type 7. They belong to the family Herpes Simplex Viruses (HSV).

Symptoms

• Mild upper respiratory illness
• High fever   
• Swollen lymph nodes
• Irritating behavior
• Pinkish-red flat or raised rash starts from the torso and the spread to the arms, legs, neck, and face.
• Febrile seizure
• Unconsciousness
• Loss of control of the bladder or bowels

Diagnosis

It is difficult to diagnose as initial signs are similar to those of other common childhood illnesses. If a child has the fever and no cold, ear infection, strep throat or other common condition is present, the doctor may wait to see the characteristic rash of roseola. Despite the high fever, the child is usually alert and active. A few children have a mild runny nose, sore throat, or an upset stomach.

About 30% of children with roseola infantum develop a rash within a few hours to, at most, a day after the temperature falls. The rash is not itchy and may last from a few hours to 2 days

Treatment

 There is no specific treatment for Roseola. Most affected children recover within a week of the onset of the fever. Medicines to reduce fever are given.

Stay hydrated, drink plenty of fluids.

Prevention

There is no vaccine to prevent roseola. Limit exposure to infected people.