Process of fever reduction for children with roseola

Written by Li Jiao Yan
Neonatology
Updated on August 31, 2024
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Infantile roseola, also known as exanthema subitum, is a common acute febrile rash illness in infants and young children. It is characterized by high fever in children under three years old lasting for 3-5 days, followed by a sudden drop in body temperature. Simultaneously, rose-pink maculopapular rashes appear. One distinguishing feature of the fever associated with this illness is that after three to five days of high fever, body temperature generally spikes, then suddenly drops. Typically, within 24 hours, the temperature returns to normal. After the fever subsides or as the body temperature drops, rashes begin to appear on the skin.

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Written by Yao Li Qin
Pediatrics
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Do infants with sudden rash need to take medicine?

Childhood rash illness is a common pediatric acute fever caused by herpes simplex virus types 6 and 7, characterized by a high fever lasting three to four days, followed by the appearance of a rash after the fever subsides. The treatment mainly involves symptomatic management. When a child's body temperature exceeds 38.5°C, antipyretic medications such as acetaminophen and ibuprofen suspension can be administered. It is also important to ensure the child stays well-hydrated. Before the rash appears, it is not certain that it will occur. For most children who have been confirmed through a blood test to have a viral infection, antiviral medications might sometimes be administered. However, these medications ultimately do not shorten the duration of the illness. Once the child has been feverish for three days and the rash appears, no further medication is typically necessary; just ensure the child drinks plenty of fluids. The rash usually spreads within about two days and then quickly fades. (Please administer medication under the guidance of a professional physician.)

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Written by Yan Xin Liang
Pediatrics
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What to do with sudden rash in toddlers?

Roseola in infants is an acute febrile infectious disease caused by human herpesvirus type 6 or type 7. During the acute phase, this disease often presents with a sudden high fever, with temperatures reaching up to 39°C (102.2°F), and even exceeding 40°C (104°F). The fever usually lasts for 3-5 days. During this time, it is important to monitor the baby's temperature closely. If a high fever occurs, timely antipyretic treatment should be administered to prevent potential high fever convulsions. Attention should also be given to the baby's mental response; if the baby appears lethargic and the fever persists, symptomatic treatment should be provided promptly. It is also crucial to be vigilant for any potential complications. Most children with roseola will develop a rash after 3-5 days of fever, which lasts about two days. If there are no complications, they can generally recover. Therefore, there is no need to be overly anxious if a child contracts roseola, as it is a self-limiting disease that typically resolves within 5-7 days.

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Written by Li Jiao Yan
Neonatology
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Can children with roseola be exposed to wind?

Roseola infantum is a common febrile rash disease in toddlers, primarily affecting infants under three years of age, with the general peak incidence at six to seven months. It is usually caused by a viral infection. During the period of roseola, the baby's immune system is weak. Exposure to drafts can lead to catching a cold and may coincide with other viral and bacterial infections, potentially causing discomfort such as coughing, nasal congestion, runny nose, vomiting, diarrhea, etc. Therefore, during the period of roseola, try to avoid taking the baby to crowded places or drafts, or going out in cold weather, and pay attention to caregiving. When their immunity is weak, avoid exposure to cold. Thus, it is best to keep the baby from being exposed to drafts during roseola.

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Written by Tong Peng
Pediatrics
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What to do with baby's sudden rash?

If a child develops sudden exanthema, parents need not be overly worried, as this condition is a rash-causing disease due to herpes virus infection and it can heal on its own. Often, the child may experience high fever for three to five days, during which physical cooling techniques and oral antipyretics can be used for symptomatic treatment. It is also appropriate to ensure the child drinks plenty of water and eats nutritious food. Once the fever symptoms alleviate, scattered rose-like rashes may appear on the child's face and trunk, which can fade on their own. During this period, symptoms of indigestion or itchy skin may occur, and taking calamine for itch relief and oral probiotics can help alleviate symptoms of digestive upset. (The use of medications should be conducted under the guidance of a physician.)

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Written by Yao Li Qin
Pediatrics
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Do babies with roseola fear water?

Roseola infantum is a common pediatric rash disease caused by a viral infection. The main symptoms are a persistent high fever lasting 3 to 4 days, followed by a sudden drop in body temperature and the appearance of a rash. Roseola is caused by a viral infection and is not aggravated by water exposure. During the fever period, if the body temperature is below 38.5°C, it is acceptable to use a warm towel to wipe the child's forehead, neck, armpits, and groin to physically reduce the temperature. At the same time, it is important to ensure that the child drinks plenty of fluids. There is no relationship between roseola and water, and during the period of continuous high fever, it is crucial to keep the child hydrated, as a high fever causes significant fluid loss. Moreover, if the child does not receive adequate fluids, the fever may be difficult to reduce, which is an important point to note. Parents should understand that roseola is not exacerbated by exposure to water.