Roseola and your child

Recently I've seen an increasing number of cases of roseola in children at the clinic, and it's always a situation that causes parents extreme stress. This common and harmless childhood viral infection is funny because we can't confirm a roseola infection until the rash comes out at the end of the symptomatic period (usually 3 days of mild-high fever, flu-like symptoms, lethargy, decreased appetite). During those 3 days of symptoms, parents are usually frustrated and worried at not knowing what is wrong with the child, and I often see medical doctors prescribing antibiotics 'just in case' (they too don't know it's roseola, and often assume it's another infection). Once the rash comes out, we can confirm that in fact it was roseola. There is no 'cure' for roseola - you don't need antibiotics or other medications. The most important thing is to keep your child comfortable, drinking lots of liquids even if they are not hungry, and manage the fever appropriately (speak to your Naturopath or health care provider if you are concerned).
The rash itself should not cause your child any discomfort, but as always, use only natural skin care products on their skin.

Dr. Anna Falkowski
Naturopathic Doctor & Founder
Olive Baby
www.OliveBaby.ca