Roseola is defined as a viral infection usually affecting children between 6 months to 3 years of age. The characteristic sign of roseola is a rash that forms 3-7 days or so after a fever.
It initially manifests on the torso and spreads to the arms, face and legs. If examined up close, it appears as clusters of miniature pinkish or reddened spots that merge to form a larger patch.
Close look on fever
The rash brought about by roseola is not itchy and does not last long, usually only a few hours up to a few days. Generally, by the time the rash manifest, the child is already better.
Unless the child has a compromised immune system, he/she can recover on his own. Even though the rash triggered by roseola is not harmful, it is not the same in some children. A child infected by the roseola virus might have a temperature reaching 104 degrees F which increases the risk for seizures.
In case the child has a very high fever, a doctor should be consulted, even if there are no other signs. Aside from the risk for seizure, the elevated body temperature might be an indication of other ailments other than roseola.
Management of roseola
By the time the child has been determined to be infected by the roseola virus, he/she has already recovered. If fever is present, ibuprofen or acetaminophen can be given to help him/her feel better. Simply ensure that the child is kept comfortable. An infection can occur at any time of the year and not considered contagious.