What causes roseola in infants?

Written by Huang Kun Mei

Pediatrics

Updated on March 05, 2025

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Exanthema subitum in children is caused by a viral infection, generally starting abruptly with a fever above 39°C, and a rash appears as the fever subsides. The rash is roseola. During the period of exanthema subitum, it's important to avoid drafts, ensure indoor ventilation twice a day, and keep the air fresh. Since exanthema subitum is caused by a viral infection, it is necessary to treat children with antiviral medications. It is recommended to use traditional Chinese medicine antivirals because they tend to have fewer side effects. During the exanthema subitum period, avoid going out, and children should not attend kindergarten to steer clear of crowded places.

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Written by Tong Peng

Pediatrics

52sec

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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 Quan Xiang Mei

Pediatrics

49sec

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What are the symptoms of roseola in infants?

Roseola in infants typically occurs in young children, characterized by a rash that appears once the fever subsides. Usually, after about 3-5 days of persistent high fever, children may develop a red rash either all over the body or localized to the head, face, and limbs. This rash generally does not itch or cause discomfort and has no other clinical symptoms, so parents usually do not need to manage it. During the period of roseola, efforts should be made to avoid repeated colds and refrain from outdoor activities. Typically, within about 24-48 hours, the roseola rash will subside on its own, and no treatment is needed, but it is important for the child to drink plenty of water.

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Written by Yan Xin Liang

Pediatrics

53sec

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How to reduce fever in children with roseola infantum

Infantile roseola is an acute febrile exanthematic disease caused by human herpesvirus type 6 or 7. The main clinical manifestation is a sudden high fever, with body temperatures reaching up to 39 degrees Celsius, or even above 40 degrees Celsius. Besides fever, most babies remain relatively alert, but some may experience febrile convulsions, so it is important to manage the fever promptly. Fever can be reduced by oral antipyretic medications or through rectal administration, commonly using ibuprofen and acetaminophen. These can be repeated every 4-6 hours. Physical cooling methods, such as wiping with warm water or taking a warm bath, can also be used in conjunction with medicinal treatments. (The use of medications should be under the guidance of a doctor)

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Written by Li Jiao Yan

Neonatology

59sec

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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 Yao Li Qin

Pediatrics

1min 12sec

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How to treat roseola infantum?

Pediatric acute rash is a common febrile rash disease seen in infants and young children, mostly occurring between six months to one and a half years old. Its main symptom is a fever for three days followed by a rash as the fever subsides. Before the rash appears, it is not known to be pediatric acute rash. The treatment mainly involves symptomatic management, as it is caused by a viral infection, so some antiviral medications can be taken. Symptomatic treatment primarily involves reducing fever. The principle for fever reduction is that if the body temperature exceeds 38.5 degrees Celsius, give the child fever-reducing medication, such as ibuprofen suspension; below 38.5, physical cooling methods are sufficient. Once the fever has lasted three days and the rash appears confirming pediatric acute rash, all medications can be discontinued. The child should drink plenty of water and rest. Generally, the rash will fully develop within about 24 hours, and then naturally subside over the following three to five days.