How to prepare for a video visit about Roseola (Infant) - Triage

Audience: pediatric

Roseola is a common viral infection in infants and young children that usually causes a sudden high fever followed by a distinctive rash. It often resolves on its own without complications. Preparing for a video visit about roseola can help you provide clear information to your healthcare provider and get the best advice for your child. During the visit, the provider will ask about symptoms, fever duration, and rash appearance. They may guide you on managing fever and hydration at home. While most cases are mild, some signs require urgent care. This guide helps you understand what to expect during a telemedicine visit, how to prepare, and when to seek in-person medical attention. Remember, telemedicine is a helpful tool but not a replacement for emergency or in-person care when needed.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Seizures or convulsions — seek emergency care immediately.
• Difficulty breathing or rapid breathing — call emergency services promptly.
• Persistent vomiting or inability to keep fluids down — seek urgent medical evaluation.

What telemedicine can do

• Initial assessment of fever and rash symptoms.
• Guidance on home care and fever management.
• Advice on hydration and monitoring symptoms.
• Determining if in-person care is needed.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Emergency situations like seizures or breathing difficulty.
• Physical examination requiring hands-on assessment.
• Laboratory tests or imaging studies.
• Treatment of severe or complicated cases.

What is Roseola in Infants?

Roseola is a viral illness that commonly affects infants and toddlers, typically between 6 months and 2 years old. It usually starts with a sudden high fever lasting 3 to 5 days. After the fever goes down, a pinkish rash may appear, often starting on the trunk and spreading to the limbs. The rash is not itchy and usually fades within a few days. Roseola is caused by viruses called human herpesvirus 6 or 7 and is generally mild.

Preparing for Your Video Visit

Before your telemedicine appointment, gather important information about your child's symptoms. Note when the fever started, how high it has been, and any other symptoms like irritability, feeding problems, or rash details. Have a way to show the rash clearly on camera if possible. Be ready to discuss any medications your child has taken and their response. Find a quiet, well-lit place for the visit where you can focus and communicate easily with the provider.

What to Expect During the Video Visit

The healthcare provider will ask about your child's symptoms, fever history, and rash appearance. They may request to see the rash through the camera. The provider will assess whether your child can be safely cared for at home or if in-person evaluation is needed. They will give advice on managing fever, hydration, and signs to watch for. They may also discuss when to seek emergency care.

Managing Roseola at Home

Most infants with roseola recover well with supportive care. Keep your child comfortable by giving fluids to prevent dehydration and using fever-reducing medicines as advised by your healthcare provider. Dress your child in light clothing and keep the room at a comfortable temperature. Monitor your child's behavior and symptoms closely. Avoid giving aspirin to children.

When to Seek Immediate Medical Care

While roseola is usually mild, some signs require urgent attention. Contact emergency services or go to the nearest emergency room if your child has:

Limitations of Telemedicine for Roseola

Telemedicine can help assess many cases of roseola, but it cannot replace physical exams or tests if your child is very ill or has unclear symptoms. If the provider suspects complications or other illnesses, they may recommend an in-person visit for further evaluation and care.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Note the start date and highest temperature of your child's fever.
• Observe and be ready to show the rash clearly on camera.
• List any other symptoms your child has experienced.
• Prepare a list of medications given and their effects.
• Find a quiet, well-lit place with a stable internet connection for the video call.
• Have a thermometer and any fever-reducing medicines handy.

After your tele-visit

• Follow the healthcare provider's advice on fever and symptom management.
• Monitor your child's hydration and comfort closely.
• Watch for any worsening symptoms or red flags.
• Schedule an in-person visit if recommended or if symptoms worsen.
• Keep a record of your child's symptoms and any changes to report in follow-up visits.

FAQs

What causes roseola in infants?

Roseola is caused by common viruses called human herpesvirus 6 and 7. These viruses spread easily among young children, especially through saliva and respiratory secretions.

Is roseola contagious?

Yes, roseola is contagious and can spread from child to child, mainly before the rash appears. However, once the rash is visible, the child is usually less contagious.

How long does the fever last in roseola?

The high fever in roseola typically lasts 3 to 5 days. After the fever goes down, the rash usually appears and fades within a few days.

Can I treat roseola at home?

Most cases of roseola can be managed at home with supportive care like fluids and fever reducers. Always follow your healthcare provider's advice and watch for signs that need medical attention.

When should I call my healthcare provider during my child's illness?

Contact your provider if the fever lasts more than 5 days, if your child is unusually sleepy, has difficulty breathing, seizures, persistent vomiting, or if you have any concerns about their condition.

Sources

1. Roseola — MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine / NIH.
2. Roseola Infantum — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
3. Roseola (Sixth Disease) — Mayo Clinic.
4. Roseola — Merck Manuals Consumer Version.

This telemedicine guidance is for educational and triage purposes only and is not a substitute for in-person medical care. If your child has severe symptoms or emergency signs, seek immediate medical attention.