Caring for Kids
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 six months and two years of age.
Roseola spreads through contact with the saliva of an infected person or by breathing in droplets released when they cough or sneeze. It can also spread when germs get on your hands and then into your nose, mouth, or eyes.
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
Individual cases are not reportable to the Health Unit.
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.
Healthcare Provider Information
Merck Manual - Professional Version
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 updated: July 2026, by CDC