Viral Skin Rash

Babies and toddlers get frequent viral infections and many of these will cause a rash. Don't worry - your child is building up his immunity all the time and this is just part of the process. To read more about common viral infections in children, click here

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What does a Viral Rash look like?

Viral rash on back	Blanches with pressure

It is usually red (erythematous) and it blanches on pressure - so pushing on the rash with a glass makes the rash disappear.

The rash can be red spots which feel slightly raised touch. Sometimes, the rash spots seem to join together to form one big red area.

Viral rash on abdomen	Viral rash on back

The photo on the left shows faint red spots on the back - a characteristic viral skin rash in a baby. The right photo shows a more florid erythematous rash on the back, also caused by a virus. Both rashes blanch when pressure is applied (see top right photo).

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Is a Viral Rash Itchy?

It isn't usually that itchy. If your child has a very itchy red rash, he could have urticaria which is an allergic rash - read more.

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What can I do for to treat the rash?

There is no treatment. The rash will disappear when the body removes the virus from its system.

If the rash is dry, you can apply a moisturizer to make the skin softer which will be more comfortable for your child. Use moisturizers that are unperfumed and plain.

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When should I get medical help?

Seek medical attention if:

• the rash does not blanch on pressure - ie. is a petechial rash - read more
• the rash is very itchy - your child may need antihistamines for urticaria - read more
• your child is unwell and you are concerned he has a serious illness - to read about signs of serious illness, click here

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