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Rash appearing after a fever goes away

Also called: Roseola

A rash that appears after a high fever goes away in a young child is often roseola. It's usually harmless.

Common causesRoseola
Usually serious?Usually not
Get checked ifSeizure, or child seems very sick
If you think it's an emergency, call 911.Possible poisoning or something swallowed? Call Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222.

Overview

High fever lasts 3 to 5 days before the rash.

Fever can cause febrile seizures.

When to get medical care

Call 911Seizure lasting more than 5 minutes, or trouble breathing.
Get care todayChild seems very sick or won't drink.
See a doctor soonRash lasting more than a few days.

Causes

Caused by human herpesvirus 6 or 7.

OwieClear has pages on 1 condition that can cause rash appearing after a fever goes away. Each shows how soon to get care.

Common causes

  • RoseolaOften treated at home

    A viral illness in young children with a few days of high fever, followed by a pink rash after the fever goes away.

What you can do at home

  • Rest and fluids.

Medicines

Acetaminophen or ibuprofen for fever.

At the doctor

Diagnosed by history.

Questions you may be asked

  • Fever pattern

The exam

A physical exam.

Tests

  • None

Prevention

Lower spread.

  • Wash hands

Check your symptoms

Most symptoms have more than one possible cause. The symptom checker looks at all of your symptoms together, plus your age, and shows how soon to get care.

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Sources

Last updated 2026-11-13.