Parents can become alarmed when their toddler develops a rash in response to an infection, or exposure to an irritant or allergen. According to the Medline Plus website, most rashes will resolve with home care. However, if there is any indication the child is not improving or appears distressed, seek immediate medical attention.
Hand-Foot-and-Mouth-Disease
Hand-foot-and-mouth-disease is a common, contagious childhood viral infection, usually apparent before age 10. Characteristics of the disease include sores in the mouth and a rash on the child's hands and feet, according to the Mayo Clinic and Medline Plus websites. Coxsackievirus is another name for this disease, since the cause of the disease is exposure to coxsackievirus A16, notes Medline Plus. There are several ways the virus might be transmitted; they include direct contact with the infected person's saliva, fluid in blisters, nasal or throat discharge and stool. Once a toddler becomes infected, symptoms will appear in roughly three to seven days. Both websites report that there is no specific treatment for the disease; treatment is aimed at relieving the symptoms.
Parvovirus
Parvovirus, also referred to as fifth disease or slapped cheek disease, is another mild virus that most commonly affects children. The Arthritis Foundation says symptoms include cold or flu-like symptoms followed by a red rash on the cheeks, central area and limbs. The child may also experience transient pain and swelling in the joints. The Mayo Clinic notes the rash on the cheeks is bright red when it starts, later taking on a pink, lacy and slightly raised appearance.
Roseola
Roseola, another mild childhood virus, usually appears in children by age 2 and is so common that most children become infected by the time they go to kindergarten, says the Mayo Clinic. The herpes virus causes this disease, which has varying symptoms in children. Children with roseola develop a high fever and other cold-like symptoms. The rash associated with roseola appears after the fever goes away. The Mayo Clinic website notes that the rash appears as small pink dots or patches, with a white ring around some dots. The rash usually starts on the chest, tummy and back, and progresses to the neck and arms. Because this virus is associated with a high fever, the Mayo Clinic recommends calling a pediatrician for fevers or 103 degrees Farenheit or greater.
