Fall is here. It is time, given the season and school crowding issues, for us to begin seeing an influx of pediatric illnesses. I will give a breakdown of several common ailments and what to look for. Let’s start with Roseola.

Roseola (Roseola infantum, exanthem subitum)

Roseola is a febrile rash that is very common in young children (usually 2-3 or less). Anytime a child has a rash it can be distressing but this is a case where just treating the symptoms is all you need to do. The hallmark of the illness is a moderate to high fever (up to 104) that lasts 3-5 days followed by resolution of the fever and eruption of a total body rash. This illness is caused by herpes virus 6 and is not treatable by antibiotics. The rash usually lasts a couple of days. Except for being tired and not as hungry, the child really does not appear ill. The only real treatment is rest, fluids and fever control for comfort. Not all fever actually needs treated.