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Roseola
Definition:
Roseola is an acute disease of infants and young children that is characterized by a high fever and skin rash. Causes, incidence, and risk factors:
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The disease is common in children 3 months to 4 years old, and most common in those between 6 months and 1 year. It is caused by a virus called human herpesvirus 6 (HHV-6), although similar syndromes are possible with other viruses. Roseola occurs throughout the year. The incubation period (the time between becoming infected and the beginning of symptoms) is 5 to 15 days. A fever lasting 3 (sometimes up to 7) days generally comes before the rash appears. The fever may be as high as 105 degrees Fahrenheit. Roseola begins with a high fever that generally responds well to acetaminophen (Tylenol). Between the 2nd and 4th day of illness, the fever falls dramatically, and a rash appears (often as the fever falls) on the trunk and spreads to the limbs, neck, and face. The rash lasts from a few hours to 2 days.
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