How to reduce fever in infants and young children with roseola
Sep 05, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhou Xiaofeng
Introduction
In general, fever caused by infantile emergency rash (roseola) may be due to immune responses triggered by viral infections, an immature body temperature regulation center, human herpesvirus 6 (HHV-6) infection, human herpesvirus 7 (HHV-7) infection, or concurrent mild upper respiratory tract infection. It is recommended to seek timely medical attention, identify the underlying cause, and then improve the condition through general treatment, medication, or other approaches under a doctor's guidance.
Generally, infantile emergency rash with fever may be caused by immune response triggered by viral infection, underdeveloped thermoregulatory center, human herpesvirus 6 infection, human herpesvirus 7 infection, or concurrent mild upper respiratory tract infection. It is recommended to seek timely medical attention, identify the underlying cause, and then improve the condition through general treatment and medication under a doctor's guidance. Detailed explanations are as follows:
1. Immune response triggered by viral infection: When infants and young children are infected with a virus, their immune system activates to combat it. During this process, pyrogenic substances are released, causing an increase in body temperature. Keep the room well-ventilated at a temperature between 22-26°C, reduce the infant's clothing, and use lukewarm water to wipe areas such as the forehead and armpits to help dissipate heat. Additionally, provide small, frequent amounts of warm water to ensure hydration.
2. Underdeveloped thermoregulatory center: The thermoregulatory center in infants is not fully developed and has limited ability to regulate body temperature, making them more prone to fever and greater temperature fluctuations after infection. Avoid overdressing the infant; instead, choose loose, breathable cotton clothing. Monitor the body temperature closely, measuring every 1-2 hours, to promptly track temperature changes.
3. Human herpesvirus 6 infection: This virus is the primary causative agent of infantile emergency rash. After infection, the virus replicates within the body, triggering fever symptoms. Fever typically lasts for 3-5 days. If the body temperature exceeds 38.5°C, medications such as acetaminophen suspension drops, ibuprofen suspension, or pediatric Chai Gui antipyretic granules may be used according to medical advice.
4. Human herpesvirus 7 infection: This virus can also cause infantile emergency rash. Similar to infection with human herpesvirus 6, it leads to fever in infants and young children, with comparable symptoms. In addition to using antipyretic medications, reducing physical activity and maintaining a light diet can help alleviate the infant's physical burden and promote recovery.
5. Concurrent mild upper respiratory tract infection: During the period of infantile emergency rash, the infant's immunity decreases, making them susceptible to mild upper respiratory tract infections, which may worsen fever symptoms and possibly be accompanied by slight nasal congestion and coughing. Medications such as pediatric paracetamol chlorpheniramine granules, pediatric cold relief syrup, or ambroxol and clenbuterol oral solution may be used under medical guidance to alleviate discomfort.
During daily care, observe the infant's mental state carefully. If symptoms such as listlessness or refusal to eat occur, promptly inform the doctor. Avoid taking the infant to crowded places during the fever to prevent cross-infection. The infant's diet should primarily consist of breast milk or formula. If complementary foods have already been introduced, easily digestible options such as millet porridge and vegetable puree may be selected.
