What is Roseola Disease and Why Does It Occur?

  

Have you heard the term ‘roseola’ and wondered what exactly it is? Roseola is a mild infection that commonly affects children aged 2 or older. It usually occurs in most children by the time they enter kindergarten. Roseola is caused by two common strains of the herpes virus, and in most cases, infected patients will have a fever for several days, followed by a rash. Although the condition is not a serious one, complications can arise if the patient has a very high fever. Roseola treatment includes medications to reduce fever, plenty of fluids and bed rest.

The most common symptoms of Roseola are fever and rashes. Other signs may include:

•          Decreased appetite
•          Mild diarrhea
•          Swollen eyelids
•          Irritability in children and infants

Causes of Roseola

• As mentioned above, Roseola is caused by two common strains of herpes virus. The human herpesvirus 6 is the most common cause of the condition. However, in some cases, it can also be caused by the human herpesvirus 7. 
• Like the common cold and other viral illnesses, Roseola can spread from one person to another through contact with the saliva or respiratory secretions of the infected person. For example, if a healthy child shares a cup with someone who is infected, he or she could contract the virus. 
• It is important to remember that even if there is no rash, Roseola is contagious. This means that the infection can spread while the child with the infection has only a fever, even before it is evident that he or she has Roseola. You should watch out for any signs or symptoms if your child has come into contact with another child who has been infected with Roseola. 
• If your child has a very high fever or if the fever spikes fast, he or she could have a febrile seizure or convulsion. If your child has an unexplained convulsion or the rash does not improve after 3 days, you should take him or her to a doctor immediately.