What is roseola infantum?

Written by Yan Xin Liang
Pediatrics
Updated on January 26, 2025
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Roseola infantum is a disease characterized by a fever, followed by a rash after the fever subsides. This disease is caused by an infection with human herpesvirus type 6 or type 7. Typically, it starts with a fever lasting three to five days, which can be moderately high. Generally, a rash appears after the fever subsides, primarily on the torso but it can also spread to the limbs. The rash usually fades within about two days and leaves no scars once it has disappeared.

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Written by Li Jiao Yan
Neonatology
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Do infants with roseola feel itchy?

Toddler rash, also known as roseola infantum, is a common acute febrile rash skin disease in infants and young children. It is characterized by a sudden drop in body temperature after high fever for 3-5 days in infants and young children under three years of age, accompanied by the appearance of rose-red maculopapular rashes. The distinctive feature of these rashes appears concurrently with the subsidence of the fever or after the fever has subsided, mainly concentrated on the trunk, head, and neck, with fewer occurrences on the limbs. There are usually no rashes below the elbows and knees or on the palms and soles. The rash fills up within 24 hours, and starts to fade 1-2 days later without leaving any pigmentation or scaling. The rash in toddler exanthem does not cause significant itching, and does not leave pigmentation or scaling after it subsides. Therefore, during the rash period of toddler exanthem, if the child is crying and restless, it may be related to the high fever. Parents should generally avoid scratching the rash for the baby to prevent skin damage and secondary bacterial infections.

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Written by Gong Hui
Pediatrics
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What age do children typically get roseola?

Exanthem subitum in infants is a viral infectious disease caused by human herpesvirus type 6 and type 7. Newborns initially acquire protective antibodies from their mothers. Generally, after five to six months, as antibody levels decrease, the likelihood of contracting a virus such as human herpesvirus increases. The peak age for contracting exanthem subitum is between six months and two years, although this can vary. Children aged three to four, who have not contracted exanthem subitum or the human herpesvirus before the age of two, can still contract the disease.

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Written by Yao Li Qin
Pediatrics
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What should not be eaten with baby sudden rash?

Roseola infantum is caused by human herpesvirus types 6 and 7, a common acute rash infectious disease in pediatrics, also known as baby roseola. Its main characteristic is high fever for 3-4 days, followed by a rash as the fever subsides. Since roseola infantum is clearly a viral infection, its treatment mainly involves symptomatic management. For children in pediatric emergency care, while actively managing symptoms, it is essential to ensure adequate hydration and nutrition, so normal diet is still necessary. However, the diet should be light and easy to digest. Foods that are difficult to digest, such as large fish, large pieces of meat, or raw and cold irritants like some beverages or colder foods, should be avoided.

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Written by Yao Li Qin
Pediatrics
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Can air conditioning be used for children with roseola infantum?

Exanthema subitum, also known as roseola infantum, is a common pediatric disease caused by a viral infection that results in fever and rash. When a child's temperature exceeds 38.5℃, it is necessary to administer antipyretic medication. If the temperature is below 38.5℃, physical methods to reduce the fever are sufficient. Since the child is in a continuous state of high fever, it is acceptable to use air conditioning. Air conditioning can maintain a suitable indoor temperature and humidity level. The appropriate temperature and humidity can make the child more comfortable and also aid in reducing the fever. Of course, it is crucial to avoid exposing the child directly to the airflow from the air conditioner. Additionally, the air in air-conditioned rooms can be quite dry, so it is essential to ensure that the child drinks plenty of fluids.

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Written by Li Jiao Yan
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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.