Roseola infantum

Roseola infantum is a common, mild, viral infection that can cause a temperature and rash in babies and young children.

It is caused by a virus from the herpes group, but it does not cause other herpes infections like cold sores.

In the past, roseola was sometimes referred to as ‘baby measles’

Roseola commonly affects children aged between six months and two years, and 95 per cent of children have been infected with it by the age of two

Clinical features

Sudden high temperature, which usually lasts between three to five days.

Occasionally, a raised, red rash can develop when your child’s temperature returns to normal.

It appears on the body and spreads to the arms and legs; it is rarely seen on the face.

The rash generally lasts for two days

Management

Roseola usually lasts around four days and almost never requires any medical treatment.