Roseola (exanthem subitum) is caused by a virus called human herpesvirus 6 (HHV-6) and, possibly, human herpesvirus 7 (HHV-7). It is most common in children 6 months to 24 months of age. Symptoms include a high fever that lasts for 3 to 5 days, runny nose, irritability, eyelid swelling, and tiredness. When the fever disappears, a rash appears, mainly on the face and body, and lasts for about 24 to 48 hours. However, other complications of roseola are rare.

Roseola is spread from person to person, but it is not known how. Roseola is not very contagious. Usually, roseola goes away without any treatment. A child with fever and rash should be excluded from childcare until seen by a physician. A child with rash and no fever may return to childcare.

© January 1997