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 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 Yan Xin Liang
Pediatrics
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Do toddler exanthemata itch?

Roseola infantum is an acute febrile developmental disease caused by human herpesvirus type 6, and in some cases, by human herpesvirus type 7. Generally, the fever lasts three to five days, and a rash appears after the fever subsides, typically lasting about two days before fading. If there are no complications, recovery is usually swift. The rash in roseola infantum is roseola-like maculopapular and is neither painful nor itchy. Therefore, this rash does not cause itching. If the rash is significantly itchy, the likelihood of roseola infantum is relatively small, and it may be caused by allergies or other reasons.

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Written by Yan Xin Liang
Pediatrics
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What should be paid attention to regarding breastfeeding for children with roseola?

Roseola infantum, also known as exanthem subitum, is an acute febrile infectious disease caused by human herpesvirus type 6 or type 7. The main clinical manifestation is a sudden high fever that typically resolves after 3 to 5 days, followed by a rash. The rash, usually a skin rash, dissipates after about 2 days. If the child is breastfed, breastfeeding can continue. However, since it is a viral infection causing the fever and rash, the mother should consume a light and easily digestible diet to avoid burdening the baby's gastrointestinal tract. In addition, it is beneficial for the baby to drink plenty of warm water to aid in recovery from the illness.

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Written by Yao Li Qin
Pediatrics
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Do babies with roseola fear water?

Roseola infantum is a common pediatric rash disease caused by a viral infection. The main symptoms are a persistent high fever lasting 3 to 4 days, followed by a sudden drop in body temperature and the appearance of a rash. Roseola is caused by a viral infection and is not aggravated by water exposure. During the fever period, if the body temperature is below 38.5°C, it is acceptable to use a warm towel to wipe the child's forehead, neck, armpits, and groin to physically reduce the temperature. At the same time, it is important to ensure that the child drinks plenty of fluids. There is no relationship between roseola and water, and during the period of continuous high fever, it is crucial to keep the child hydrated, as a high fever causes significant fluid loss. Moreover, if the child does not receive adequate fluids, the fever may be difficult to reduce, which is an important point to note. Parents should understand that roseola is not exacerbated by exposure to water.

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Written by Yan Xin Liang
Pediatrics
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Can children with roseola go outside?

Roseola infantum, also known as exanthema subitum, is caused by human herpesvirus type 6 or type 7. It is an acute febrile infectious disease that evolves over time. The fever may last three to five days. It's important to keep warm, especially in winter, as failure to do so can worsen the child's condition. However, going out is generally fine as long as proper precautions are taken to avoid aggravating the child's illness. Still, it is crucial to intensify care, maintain a light diet, and provide a quiet and comfortable environment for the child, all of which are beneficial for recovery.