Roseola is an infectious disease. It is caused by a virus, and is sometimes referred to as ‘sixth disease’. Anyone can become infected, but the disease mainly affects children under the age of two.
What are the symptoms of roseola?
A child with roseola first develops a sudden high fever. After a few days, the fever subsides and a red spotty rash appears. The red rash starts on the face, stomach and back, then spreads to the arms and neck. The rash does not itch and the spots disappear after one to two days. Children affected by roseola usually do not feel very ill.
How does roseola spread?
Roseola is caused by a herpes virus. The virus is found in the throat of an infected person. When they cough or sneeze, tiny droplets containing the virus are expelled into the air. If other people inhale the droplets, they could become infected. The incubation period between exposure and illness is five to fifteen days. After infection, the virus remains present in the body.
How can I prevent roseola?
There is no vaccine against roseola. Good coughing hygiene and hand hygiene reduce the risk of transmitting the virus. It is unclear how long roseola is contagious. Staying home does not help keep others from becoming ill.
Is there any treatment for roseola?
Treatment is not needed. Roseola goes away on its own.
Does roseola pose any risks during pregnancy?
The disease does not pose any risks during pregnancy.
How common is roseola in the Netherlands?
There is little data available on how often roseola occurs in the Netherlands. It is likely that most children under the age of two have been infected at least once.