Human herpesvirus 6 (HHV-6), a virus with double-stranded DNA belonging to the Herpesviridae family, mainly infects humans and causes roseola, also known as “sixth disease” or “exanthema subitum”. This infection primarily impacts children aged 6 months to 2 years, targeting CD4 cells, specifically helper T-cells, resulting in immunosuppression.
Roseola typically begins with a high fever lasting for 3-4 days, followed by a diffuse macular rash showing a lacy pattern while sparing the face, sometimes leading to febrile seizures.
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What is HHV-6?
HHV-6, also identified as human herpesvirus 6, is part of the Herpesviridae family, causing roseola, a viral illness with prolonged fever and unique skin rash.
Roseola Symptoms and Diagnosis
Roseola starts with a fever that can persist for days, followed by a rash emerging on the trunk and gradually spreading to other body parts. Laboratory tests can confirm the presence of HHV-6 for diagnosis.
How Roseola Spreads
Transmission of HHV-6 occurs through saliva, primarily among children in daycare settings. The virus can also spread through respiratory secretions, blood, and other bodily fluids. It is important to avoid sharing utensils, cups, or other items that may come into contact with saliva to prevent the spread of the virus. Additionally, practicing good hygiene, such as washing hands frequently and avoiding close contact with individuals who are sick, can help reduce the risk of transmission. HHV-6 can also be reactivated in individuals who have weakened immune systems due to stress or illness.
Impact of HHV-6 on the Immune System
HHV-6 affects CD4 cells, decreasing their count and impacting the immune system. Reactivation in individuals with compromised immunity can lead to health complications.
Additional Information:
Recent studies have shown that HHV-6 reactivation is also associated with increased inflammation and can exacerbate certain autoimmune conditions. It is important for individuals with weakened immune systems to be vigilant about monitoring their HHV-6 levels to prevent any potential health complications.
Author: Vanessa Ngan, Staff Writer, 2002. Revised by Hon A/Prof Amanda Oakley, September 2015.
Prevention and Treatment of Roseola
Roseola usually resolves without specific treatment, with recommendations for rest, hydration, and fever management. The rash typically does not require treatment.
Possible Roseola Complications
- Febrile seizures
Incubation Period and Initial Symptoms
The incubation period of roseola ranges from 5 to 15 days, with initial symptoms like eye redness, irritability, runny nose, sore throat, and high fever.
The rash appears 2 to 4 days later, starting at the middle of the body and spreading to other areas.
Physical Exam and Diagnosis
Your healthcare provider will conduct an examination of the child, review their medical history, and check for swollen lymph nodes.
Management and Complications
No specific treatment is necessary for roseola, as it often resolves on its own. Acetaminophen and cool baths can help manage symptoms. Rare complications, such as aseptic meningitis, may occur.
It is important for patients to stay well-hydrated and get plenty of rest while recovering from roseola. Monitoring for any signs of dehydration or worsening symptoms is also recommended.
If a child develops a high fever, seizures, or any concerning symptoms, it is important to seek medical attention promptly. While rare, complications such as seizures can occur in some cases of roseola.
When to Seek Medical Attention
- Unresponsive fever to medication
- Severe illness or extreme fatigue
- Convulsions
- Difficulty breathing
- Severe abdominal pain
- Signs of dehydration (e.g. dry mouth, decreased urine output)
- Sudden weakness or numbness
- Severe headache or confusion
- Chest pain or pressure
Preventing Roseola
Practicing proper handwashing can aid in preventing the spread of viruses causing roseola.
Avoid close contact with individuals who are infected with roseola to reduce the risk of contracting the virus. It is also important to maintain good hygiene practices, such as covering your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing, and avoiding sharing utensils or personal items with infected individuals.
Ensuring that your child’s vaccinations are up to date can also help prevent the development of roseola. If you suspect that your child may have roseola, consult with a healthcare provider for proper diagnosis and treatment.
References
References:
1. Cherry J. Roseola infantum (exanthem subitum). In: Feigin and Cherry’s Textbook of Pediatric Infectious Diseases. 8th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2019:chap 59.
2. Tesini BL, Caserta MT. Roseola (human herpesviruses 6 and 7). In: Nelson Textbook of Pediatrics. 21st ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2020:chap 283.
Contributors
Updated by: Neil K. Kaneshiro, MD, MHA, Clinical Professor of Pediatrics, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, WA. Reviewed by David C. Dugdale, MD, and the A.D.A.M. Editorial team.
Additional contributors may include experts in the field of pediatrics, medical professionals, researchers, and educators who have provided valuable insights and expertise to ensure the accuracy and relevance of the information presented in this article.
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06/01/2028
A.D.A.M., Inc. is accredited by URAC for Health Content Provider. Learn more about A.D.A.M.’s editorial standards and policies.
Risk Factors and Immunity
Roseola is common among children aged 6 months to 2 years, with the highest susceptibility between 6 and 15 months. A single episode usually provides immunity, but reinfections can occur.
Seizures related to high fever are possible.
Roseola is contagious and spreads through contact with an infected person’s saliva when they cough or sneeze. It remains contagious until the child is fever-free for 24 hours and the rash appears. Consult your healthcare provider if unsure about contagion status.
Is Roseola Itchy?
Roseola rash is typically non-itchy and does not cause discomfort. Seek advice from a healthcare provider if itching occurs.
Roseola Incubation Period?
The incubation period of roseola is usually 5 to 15 days.
Prevention and Treatment
There is no specific vaccine to prevent roseola, but practicing good hygiene, such as frequent hand washing, can help reduce the risk of infection. Treatment for roseola typically involves managing symptoms such as fever with over-the-counter medications and ensuring the child gets plenty of rest and fluids.
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What Causes Roseola?
Roseola is caused by exposure to common strains of the human herpes virus, typically HHV-6 or HHV-7. Respiratory secretions or saliva are common modes of transmission.
Roseola Virus Symptoms
Visible symptoms of roseola can manifest between 5 and 15 days post-infection, including fever, rash, swollen glands, sore throat, irritability, decreased appetite, and swollen eyelids. Other symptoms may include mild diarrhea, cough, runny nose, and mild pink eye. In some cases, a high fever may occur before the rash appears.
Roseola Treatment
Roseola usually resolves within a week without requiring medical intervention. Ensure comfort, rest, and adequate fluid intake for the child.
During this time, you can give your child acetaminophen or ibuprofen to help reduce fever and discomfort. It’s also important to monitor your child’s temperature and contact a healthcare provider if it becomes too high or if you have any concerns.
Keep your child hydrated by offering plenty of fluids such as water, clear soups, and electrolyte solutions. Encourage rest and provide a comfortable environment for your child to recover.
If your child experiences any complications or symptoms worsen, seek medical attention promptly. In most cases, roseola is a mild illness that resolves on its own, but it’s always important to monitor your child’s health and seek medical advice when needed.
Roseola Medication
Management of fever can be done with acetaminophen or ibuprofen as directed. Avoid aspirin usage. Antiviral medications may be prescribed for individuals with weakened immune systems.
Roseola Vaccine
No vaccine is currently available for roseola.
However, the best way to prevent the spread of roseola is to practice good hygiene, such as washing hands regularly, avoiding close contact with infected individuals, and covering coughs and sneezes. Additionally, if you suspect that your child may have roseola, it is important to keep them at home until the fever has resolved to prevent the spread of the virus to others.
What Does Roseola Look Like?
Diagnosing roseola symptoms can be challenging initially. Learn to differentiate between roseola and other childhood illnesses.
Chickenpox Vs Roseola
Compare and contrast chickenpox and roseola: chickenpox presents with an itchy blister-like rash, while roseola features a non-itchy rash.
Roseola Vs Rubella
Compare rubella and roseola symptoms: rubella starts with fever and a pink rash, while roseola commences with a high fever and a non-itchy rash.
Roseola Vs Measles Rash
Distinguish between measles and roseola rashes: measles rash is intense, itchy, and more severe compared to the milder, non-itchy roseola rash.
How Long Does Roseola Rash Last?
The fever in roseola typically lasts 3-5 days, followed by a rash that fades within 2-4 days. The rash usually begins on the trunk and then spreads to the arms, legs, neck, and face. It is generally not itchy and may appear as pink or red spots.
Can Roseola Be Prevented?
Prevent roseola by avoiding contact with infected individuals. Keep infected children isolated and promote hand hygiene to prevent transmission.
Additionally, you can also ensure that your child receives the recommended childhood vaccines, as some vaccines can help prevent certain viruses that may lead to roseola. Practicing good hygiene habits, such as washing hands regularly and disinfecting commonly touched surfaces, can also help reduce the risk of contracting the virus.
When Should You Consult Your Baby’s Healthcare Provider?
Contact your healthcare provider if your child experiences prolonged fever, persistent rash, refusal to eat or drink, or immune system concerns. Further tests may be required if symptoms worsen.
It is important to consult your baby’s healthcare provider if you notice any concerning symptoms such as difficulty breathing, severe vomiting or diarrhea, unusual lethargy, or any other sudden changes in behavior. Trust your instincts and seek medical advice promptly to ensure your baby’s health and well-being.
The Bottom Line
Roseola is generally mild and self-resolves within a week. Consult your healthcare provider for any concerns.
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How We crafted This Article Based on medical and government sources. Consult professionals for full diagnosis and treatment.
Roseola, a prevalent viral infection in infants and young children, typically resolves without medical intervention within a week. Stay vigilant for symptoms for timely care.
What Is Roseola?
Roseola is caused by common strains of the human herpes virus. Children between 6 months and 2 years are at higher risk, typically contracting the infection between 6 and 15 months.
One episode of roseola in childhood usually confers immunity, reducing the likelihood of reinfection; however, repeat cases can occur in children with immune disorders. Most cases of roseola resolve within a week or so.
Is Roseola Contagious?
Roseola is contagious and spread through contact with an infected person’s saliva, such as during coughing or sneezing. Consult your healthcare provider if uncertain about contagion status.
Is Roseola Itchy?
No, roseola rash is typically non-itchy and does not cause discomfort. If itching occurs, seek advice from a healthcare provider to rule out other causes.
Roseola Incubation Period?
The usual incubation period for roseola ranges from 5 to 15 days.
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What Causes Roseola?
Roseola is usually caused by exposure to viruses like human herpes virus 6 or 7.
Your child can contract roseola from an infected person through:
touching surfaces contaminated by the infected individual and then touching their mouth or nose.
Additional Information about Roseola Virus Symptoms
While the symptoms mentioned above are common with roseola virus infection, it is important to note that not all individuals may experience all of these symptoms. Some individuals may only have a fever without the rash or other symptoms.
In addition to the symptoms listed, some children with roseola may experience mild diarrhea or a runny nose.
It is also important to keep in mind that the fever associated with roseola can cause febrile seizures in some children. These seizures are usually brief and do not cause any long-term harm, but it can be frightening for parents to witness. If your child experiences a febrile seizure, it is important to stay calm and seek medical attention if necessary.
Overall, while roseola can be uncomfortable for children, it is usually a mild and self-limiting illness that resolves on its own without any specific treatment. It is important to focus on keeping your child comfortable and hydrated while their body fights off the virus.
Roseola Treatment
In most cases, roseola resolves within a week without the need for professional medical intervention. Ensure your child’s comfort, rest, and fluid intake.
Roseola Medication
When treating your baby’s fever, your healthcare provider may recommend acetaminophen or ibuprofen, but avoid giving aspirin. For babies with a weakened immune system, an antiviral medication may be prescribed.
Roseola Vaccine
There is currently no vaccine available for roseola.
Since roseola is a common viral illness that usually affects children under the age of 2, most cases are mild and do not require specific treatment. The best way to prevent roseola is by practicing good hygiene, such as washing hands frequently and avoiding close contact with people who are sick.
If your child does develop roseola, the most important thing is to keep them comfortable and hydrated. You can give them acetaminophen or ibuprofen to help reduce fever and discomfort. However, it’s always best to consult with a healthcare provider before giving any medication to a child.
What Does Roseola Look Like?
Diagnosing roseola can be challenging initially, as the symptoms are similar to other common childhood illnesses. Keep an eye out for the roseola rash, especially if other conditions have been ruled out, as it can help with making a diagnosis.
Here are ways to differentiate between the roseola rash and other childhood illnesses.
Chickenpox Vs Roseola
Chickenpox and roseola are both viral infections in children, but they have distinguishable symptoms. Chickenpox presents with an itchy rash resembling blisters, while roseola’s rash does not itch.
Roseola Vs Rubella
Roseola and rubella are viral infections in children. Rubella typically begins with a mild fever and symptoms like a runny nose and swollen lymph nodes, followed by a fine, pink rash.
Roseola Vs Measles Rash
Measles and roseola rashes have different appearances. Measles rash is red and patchy, while roseola rash is pink and non-itchy.
How Long Does Roseola Rash Last?
The fever accompanying roseola can persist for three to five days. Following the fever, a rash may appear and fade within two to four days.
Can Roseola Be Prevented?
To prevent your child from contracting roseola, keep them away from infected individuals. If they have been exposed, monitor for symptoms and avoid contact with other children to prevent transmission.
When Should You Consult Your Baby’s Healthcare Provider?
Roseola typically resolves on its own, but contact your child’s healthcare provider if:
– Their fever reaches 102 degrees Fahrenheit or higher for more than 24 hours
– They are diagnosed with roseola and the fever persists for more than seven days
– The rash does not disappear after three days
– They refuse liquids or experience a febrile seizure due to a high fever
– They have a compromised immune system
– If the fever continues or symptoms worsen, tests may be ordered to confirm roseola.
It is important to monitor your baby’s symptoms closely and seek medical advice if you have any concerns about their health. Remember, it is always better to be safe than sorry when it comes to your little one’s well-being.
The Bottom Line
Roseola is typically not a cause for alarm, as most children recover over time. Reach out to your healthcare provider if you have any questions or concerns.
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How We crafted This Article This information is based on expert advice from medical and government sources. Consult healthcare professionals for a complete diagnosis and treatment plan.