This article is for general information only and does not replace medical advice. If in doubt, contact your paediatrician or midwife.
Roseola (Three-Day Fever)
Roseola follows a classic pattern that almost every child goes through once: 3-4 days of high fever — and then, when the fever suddenly drops, a red rash appears. Only then is the diagnosis clear. Roseola is harmless, but the high fever can be very unsettling for parents.
Possible Causes
- 1Human herpesvirus 6 (HHV-6) — most common pathogen (about 90%)
- 2Human herpesvirus 7 (HHV-7) — rarer, similar course
- 3Transmission via droplet infection (saliva, sneezing)
- 4Incubation period 5-15 days
- 5One-time infection — lifelong immunity afterwards
What You Can Do
- Reduce fever: paracetamol or ibuprofen (age-appropriate) — dose by weight
- Plenty of fluids: breastfeed more often, offer water or diluted teas
- Light clothing and cool room (18-20°C)
- Cool compresses only from 39°C and only when extremities are warm
- Lots of body contact and comfort — your baby needs you especially now
When to See a Doctor
- Febrile seizure: twitching, fixed gaze, loss of consciousness → place child safely, do NOT restrain, call 911/112
- Fever above 40.5°C not responding to medication
- Baby under 3 months with high fever → ALWAYS see doctor immediately
- Child stops drinking and shows signs of dehydration
- Rash is very itchy or blistering (then it's probably NOT roseola)
Age-Specific Notes
Most common between 6 months and 2 years (peak around 9-12 months). Before 6 months rare (maternal antibody protection). By age 3, over 95% of all children have had the infection. Adults are almost always immune. Roseola is the most common cause of febrile seizures in toddlers — so monitor temperature closely.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I recognise roseola?
Is the rash contagious?
Should I worry about febrile seizures?
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This article is for general information only. It does not replace individual medical advice. If you have concerns, contact your paediatrician, midwife, or call emergency services.