Roseola usually starts with a high fever (often over 39.5°C or 103° F) that lasts for 3-5 days. Most children are not very sick during the fever stage. But for some children the fever can be associated with febrile seizures (or convulsions). Your child may be cranky and irritable.

What disease does roseola cause?

Roseola infantum, or sixth disease, causes a high fever, cold symptoms and sometimes a rash on the stomach. The human herpesvirus (HHV) type 6 causes this contagious illness that mostly affects infants and toddlers.

Can roseola rash be itchy?

Roseola usually is not itchy. If your child's rash is itchy, here are some tips. Use a moisturizing cream (such as Eucerin) once or twice daily. Apply the cream after a 5 or 10-minute bath.