Roseola
Roseola, also known as Sixth Disease, is a viral illness caused by infection with human herpesvirus 6. It is most common in children between 6 months and 2 years of age. Despite the fever and rash, most children with roseola do not get very sick and the condition gets better without treatment.
More Information about Roseola
Should one go to childcare, school, or work if they have roseola?
No exclusion necessary, unless too ill to participate in activities or has a fever with behavioural change.
Note: Exclusion guidelines may differ for healthcare workers. Follow the direction of your healthcare provider or occupational health at your workplace.
Contact our Communicable Disease Control (CDC) program at 705-474-1400 or toll free at 1-800-563-2808, ext. 5229, or by email to cdc@healthunit.ca for more information.
Last reviewed: May 2025, by CDC