Roseola

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When to seek medical advice

By Mayo Clinic staff

Roseola can cause a high fever — 103 F (39.4 C) or higher. Call your child's doctor anytime your child has a fever greater than 103 F (39.4 C). The doctor may want to examine your child to rule out more serious causes of fever.

Your child could have a convulsion (febrile seizure) if his or her fever becomes too high or spikes too quickly. However, usually by the time you notice your child's high temperature, the threat of a possible seizure has already passed. If your child does have an unexplained seizure, seek medical care immediately.

If your child has roseola and the fever lasts more than seven days, or if the rash doesn't improve after three days, call your child's doctor.

If your immune system is compromised and you come in contact with someone who had roseola, contact your doctor. You may need monitoring for a possible infection that, for you, could be more severe than it is for a child.

DS00452

March 15, 2008

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