High fevers accompanied by rashes can affect both infants and toddlers. These signs are often indicative of childhood infectious diseases, which can be as common and recognizable as a viral syndrome, or as severe as bacterial meningitis. The type of rash observed, fever pattern and other specific symptoms will usually offer diagnostic clues to physicians. If your child develops a rash and high fever it is important to seek medical advice immediately.
Chickenpox
Chickenpox is caused by the Varicella virus, which is easily transmitted by coughing and sneezing. A blister-like rash will affect the trunk, face and scalp. A high fever can also develop. A vaccine is available for children as young as 12 months and is known to be effective against the virus. The disease usually resolves by itself, but it is important to keep your child from scratching to prevent severe bacterial skin infection. In some cases, the antiviral acyclovir will be prescribed for children at risk of developing complications.
Measles
A virus known as paramyxovirus is the causative agent of measles. The disease is characterized by a blotchy rash all over the body, high fever, runny nose and cough. Transmission occurs via coughing and sneezing. Measles can be prevented by a vaccine that also includes a formulation against the mumps and rubella. There is no cure against the illness -- rest, plenty of fluid and fever reducers will help a child be more comfortable. Complications include ear infections, pneumonia and more rarely encephalitis.
Roseola Infantum
Also known as sixth disease, roseola infantum is caused by human herpesvirus types 6 and 7. It usually affects children between 6 months and 2 years of age and features a high fever followed by a pink skin rash on the neck, face and trunk as the fever breaks. The spots will turn white when pressure is applied. Roseola is spread through air droplets and is usually a self-limiting disease. No vaccine is currently available for the virus and treatment is usually aimed at keeping the fever down and preventing seizures.
Bacterial Infections
Bacteria such as the meningococcus can invade the meninges or the blood and cause life-threatening diseases known as meningitis and sepsis. Other bacteria such as the pneumococcus and Hemophilus influenzae can also cause similar infections in children. These conditions are characterized by high fever and a unique type of rash known as petechiae. Petechiae usually appear below the nipple line and do not disappear when pressure is applied, as they are caused by broken capillaries. If your child shows a stiff neck, vomiting and lethargy in addition to the rash and fever, call immediately for medical assistance. It is very important that intravenous antibiotics are administered as soon as possible to promptly treat the infections.
References
- Center for Disease Control; Infectious Disease Information: Childhood Diseases
- "Consultant for Pediatricians"; Rashes and Fever in Children: Sorting Out the Potentially Dangerous, Part 1; William Gibson, MD; April 2008
- "Consultant for Pediatricians"; Rashes and Fever in Children: Sorting Out the Potentially Dangerous, Part 2; William Gibson, MD; June 2008
- "Consultant for Pediatricians"; Rashes and Fever in Children: Sorting Out the Potentially Dangerous, Part 3; William Gibson, MD; August 2009
- "Consultant for Pediatricians"; Rashes and Fever in Children: Sorting Out the Potentially Dangerous, Part 4; William Gibson, MD; April 2010
