Roseola Infantum

Condition

Due to human herpesvirus 6 (possibly also 7), spread via respiratory droplets; incubation 9–10 days. Affects children aged 6 months to 3 years (86% have had it by age 1).

Clinical features

Many cases are asymptomatic or mild. Typical course: high fever for 3–5 days, rhinitis, cough, irritability, tiredness. The rash appears as the fever subsides (around days 3–5): small rose-pink/red raised spots (2–5 mm) that blanch with pressure, mainly on the trunk, rarely spreading to the face/neck/limbs.

Investigations and management

Clinical diagnosis. Normally mild and self-limiting — rest, fluids, paracetamol for fever.