Roseola (sixth disease)
Roseola infantum
What it is
Roseola is a contagious viral illness that mainly affects children under 4 years of age. It is usually harmless and does not always have symptoms. The main symptoms are fever, runny nose, sore throat, and irritability. Small, non-itchy pink spots may also appear on the body.
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À faire
- Drink small amounts of cool water often, unless a healthcare professional advises otherwise.
- Take acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil). When in doubt, ask a pharmacist for advice.
Important: Ibuprofen is contraindicated for children under 6 months of age.
To prevent spreading the infection
- Wash hands often.
- Do not share items that have been in contact with the sick person’s mouth.
- Stay home during the most contagious period.
- Avoid close contact with other people, especially babies, children, older adults, and people who are immunocompromised.
- Regularly clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces and objects.
When to seek medical attention
Small red spots appear on your body that last 3 days or more
Fever that returns after being gone for 24 hours, despite following the recommended advice
Your skin or the whites of your eyes turn yellow (jaundice)
White or pale grey stools
Need help?
Call Info-Santé at 811, Option 1, to speak with a nurse at any time.
Go to the pharmacy for advice on medications or treatment.
Make an appointment at your medical clinic or CLSC.
If you do not have a family doctor, go to gapsoinsvirtuels or call 811, Option 3.
When to go to the hospital right away
Rapid changes in the person’s condition:
- unusual fatigue (drowsiness) or difficulty staying awake;
- reduced responsiveness to what is happening around them;
- confusion, agitation, or unusual behaviour;
- hallucinations (seeing or hearing things that are not real);
- reduced appetite or thirst;
Seizures (uncontrollable shaking of the body)
A very severe headache with a stiff neck, vomiting or sensitivity to light