Does roseola infantum infect children?

Written by Huang Kun Mei

Pediatrics

Updated on May 24, 2025

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Infantile roseola can be contagious to children, as it is caused by a viral infection and is somewhat contagious. Therefore, after a child contracts infantile roseola, it is important to ensure that the air inside the room is kept fresh, with ventilation for two hours each day.

If the child is in good spirits, eating well, and has a temperature not exceeding 38°C, physical cooling methods can be applied to the child, and the diet should be diversified. If the child still has a fever after three days, it is advised to promptly get a blood routine and C-reactive protein test for the child. If it is a bacterial infection, antibiotic treatment needs to be added.

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Written by Li Jiao Yan

Neonatology

1min 5sec

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Symptoms of sudden rash in infants

The symptoms of baby rash, a common febrile exanthematous disease in infants and toddlers, usually occur in children under three years old. The peak incidence is between six and seven months after birth. Typically, the child suddenly has a high fever without an obvious cause. The general body temperature is around 39 to 40 degrees Celsius. Besides a loss of appetite, the child generally remains in good spirits, though some may present with a mild fever, not exceeding 38 degrees Celsius. After three to five days of fever, the temperature suddenly drops, generally returning to normal within twenty-four hours. Once the fever subsides or as the temperature begins to decrease, a rash typically appears on the skin, usually rose-red maculopapular or macular rashes. A few children may show mild irritability, swollen lymph nodes, or symptoms of diarrhea and vomiting.

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Written by Yan Xin Liang

Pediatrics

55sec

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Can children with roseola eat eggs?

Exanthema subitum, also known as roseola, is an acute febrile developmental disease caused by human herpesvirus type 6 or 7. Typically, the acute phase begins with a sudden high fever, where the body temperature can reach 39°C or even exceed 40°C, lasting for about three to five days. After the fever subsides, a rash appears, generally lasting about two days. In cases without complications, the rash disappears after two days, and the condition is resolved. During the fever phase, it is recommended to have a light diet with easily digestible food included. Eggs are rich in protein and phospholipids, making them a nutritious food option that can be given to children in moderation. However, excessive consumption may increase the burden on the child's gastrointestinal function and hinder digestion.

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Written by Li Jiao Yan

Neonatology

1min 51sec

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How to care for toddler's sudden rash in winter?

Roseola infantum, also known as baby roseola, is a common acute febrile rash skin disease in infants and toddlers. It is characterized by sudden fever in children under three years old that lasts for 3-5 days, followed by a sudden drop in temperature and the appearance of rosy-pink maculopapular rashes. Typically, there is no apparent cause for roseola, with sudden high fevers reaching about 39 to 40 degrees Celsius, lasting for 3-5 days, after which the fever drops suddenly, and then rashes appear as the temperature falls. In winter, if a child contracts roseola, it is particularly important to pay attention during periods of high fever. Make sure the child does not wear too much clothing. Overdressing or wrapping the child too tightly during a fever can lead to overheating syndrome, which, in severe cases, could be accompanied by damage to other organs. Additionally, if the child sweats during the fever, clothing should be changed promptly to prevent catching cold. Furthermore, avoid exposing the child to drafts. If the child experiences wind chill during a feverish sweat, it makes them more susceptible to other infections, like upper respiratory infections or potentially pneumonia. Therefore, during winter, when children exhibit high fevers from roseola, close monitoring of their body temperature is essential, as well as avoiding overheating syndrome. Close observation of the child's mental state is crucial if they exhibit high fever. If their mental condition worsens or if they show signs of convulsions, medical attention should be sought immediately.

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Written by Yan Xin Liang

Pediatrics

40sec

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Symptoms of roseola infantum

Roseola infantum, also known as baby measles, is caused by human herpesvirus infection, characterized by acute fever accompanied by a rash. Generally, there is no obvious trigger, and it begins with a sudden high fever, where the temperature can reach up to 39°C or even higher than 40°C. The high fever usually lasts for 3-5 days, during which some may experience fever-induced convulsions. Once the fever subsides, the rash begins to appear. Generally, the rash lasts for 1-2 days. After the rash subsides, and in the absence of complications, the condition resolves.

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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.)