Viral Rashes
Viral exanthems are skin rashes that are caused by a viral illness. Some may be specific to certain viruses (roseola; hand, foot, and mouth; varicella) while some are more nonspecific in signs and symptoms. This rash could last for 1-2 week and should be self-limiting and symptomatic cares would be warranted.
What is fifth disease?
Fifth disease is a moderately contagious viral infection that is commonly experienced by school-aged children. Fifth disease in children is easily identified by a distinctive red rash on the child’s face. Fifth Disease (parvovirus B19), Erythema Infectiosum
- Viral infection that primarily affects children ages 4-15.
- Peak incidence is during winter and spring.
- Spreads by contact with saliva/sputum via coughing, sneezing, runny nose, sharing toys or sharing eating utensils.
- Typically self-limited in healthy children and adults, problems arise if uncompromised or pregnant.
Symptoms of Fifth Disease in Children: Joint Pain, Fever, and Rashes
The initial symptoms may include flu-like symptoms, joint pain and fever. The fever then subsides and a rash appears on the cheeks and occasionally on the arms, legs and torso. The cheeks are often described as appearing as if the child has been slapped. The body rash often appears lace-like.
Fifth Disease Treatment & Child Healthcare
Once rashes in children appear, they are no longer contagious and may return to normal activities.
Fifth disease in children typically appears within 4-14 days of exposure.
If you are pregnant and exposed to someone with fifth disease, you should see your own physician for further evaluation/discussion.
Treatment for fifth disease in children is supportive care only.
What is Hand Foot and Mouth Disease?
· Hand, foot, and mouth disease is a common viral infection seen in toddlers to early school-age children.
· This is seen most commonly in the summer and early fall.
· Children will often present cold-like symptoms and fever initially. Then, a day or two after the fever starts, you can see sores that develop in the mouth that are very painful. This may lead to a decrease in appetite. You may notice the child is constantly putting his/her fingers in the mouth. You may also notice a rash that comes on their hands and feet. This rash usually begins as small red areas that may become blister-like.
The child is most contagious at the peak of symptoms…coughing, drooling, runny nose and blister-like rash. Most schools have their own policy about keeping kids with hand, foot and mouth out of the classroom. Our advice is that children may return to school once they are fever-free for 24 hours and once they have no new sores.
Treatment for Hand Foot and Mouth Disease
The most important hand, foot and mouth treatment is keeping the child well-hydrated. They may not eat well, and this is okay. Hydration, however, is essential. If you are afraid that your child is dehydrated, you should contact us immediately for further evaluation.
Almost all patients will recover completely, without any intervention, in 7-10 days.
Good hand washing is the single best way to prevent the spread of this illness in the daycare setting and schools.
Bacterial Rashes
Impetigo is a contagious bacterial skin infection. It can cause lesions that vary in shape, size, and color. This often occurs due to a break in the skin and can easily spread to other parts of the body. These lesions may require treatment with an antibiotic ointment or oral antibiotics.
****The information provided here is intended only as a supplement to the advice and information provided by our providers and nurses during direct patient interactions at Health Care for Children. This information should never take the place of an actual physical examination. Call us today to schedule an appointment or to discuss your concerns with our nursing staff directly.****
Learn More
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