Roseola

Diagnosis

Roseola is often diagnosed based on symptoms. Early signs may look like other childhood illnesses, including measles. However, the rash patterns differ. A roseola rash usually begins on the chest or back, while a measles rash typically starts on the head. In some cases, a blood test may be done to confirm the diagnosis when symptoms are unclear.

Treatment

There is no specific treatment for roseola. Most children recover within a week after the fever begins. With guidance from your healthcare provider, you may use over-the-counter fever and pain medicines made for infants or children, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen. These can help ease discomfort and reduce fever.

Aspirin should be used with caution in children. Although approved for children older than age 3, aspirin should never be given to children or teens recovering from chickenpox or flu-like symptoms due to the risk of Reye’s syndrome, a rare and potentially life-threatening condition.

For children or adults with weakened immune systems, a healthcare provider may prescribe the antiviral medicine ganciclovir.