10 Diseases That Used to Be Death Sentences

9 Types Of Viral Rashes—and What To Know About Each

A viral rash, also called viral exanthem, is a skin condition that can occur when you contract a viral infection. Viral rashes are not the same as rashes due to allergic reactions, such as from a food allergy, pollen, or touching an allergen. Viruses cause viral rashes.

Rashes from viral infections can affect you at any age and may cause a series of bumps or spots that may itch, burn, or change color—depending on the exact infection you have. Some of the more well-known types of viral rashes include chickenpox, rubella, and measles. Fortunately, your rash symptoms often go away as you gradually recover from the infection.

Several viral infections can lead to skin rashes. Each rash can look different and cause its own unique set of symptoms. Here are some of the most common types. Chickenpox Chickenpox is caused by the varicella-zoster virus and causes an itchy rash that can look like red spots that turn into fluid-filled blisters. This infection is part of the herpes virus family, and the same virus causes shingles in adults. Due to the prevalence of the chickenpox vaccine, it's rare to contract this illness today. Chickenpox rash. Courtesy of Dermnet Measles Measles—a highly contagious disease that occurs when you contract the measles virus—appears as a red, blotchy rash that starts on the face and spreads downward. It's common to also experience fever, cough, and runny nose when you have measles. You can develop this infection when you are in close contact with someone who has the condition. Specifically, the germs of an infected person can pass on to you when they sneeze or cough. If you do not have the measles vaccine (also called the MMR vaccine, which protects against measles, mumps, and rubella), you have a 90% chance of developing the infection if you are exposed to someone who has measles. However, if you had measles before or received the vaccine, you are protected against the illness and are significantly less likely to develop symptoms. Measles rash. Courtesy of Dermnet Rubella Rubella, also known as German measles, looks like a pinkish-red rash that begins on the face or behind the ears and spreads to your body. This infection can also cause mild fever, a runny nose, headache, and swollen lymph nodes. Generally, the rash resolves on its own within one to three days. Healthcare providers typically consider this infection to be mild. However, rubella can pose significant risks if you are in the early stages of your pregnancy. Contracting rubella during the initial four months of pregnancy substantially increases the likelihood of severe birth defects in your unborn child. Rubella rash. Courtesy of Dermnet Fifth Disease Fifth disease, also known as erythema infectiosum, is a viral infection caused by parvovirus B19 that primarily affects children. The intensity of this infection can fluctuate. However, symptoms typically subside within seven to ten days. This infection can look like a "slapped cheek," causing a pink or red rash on a child's face. A lacy, red rash can also develop on the body and limbs, leading to mild discomfort. The rash may also cause itching, particularly on the soles of the feet. Fifth disease rash. Courtesy of Dermnet Roseola Roseola is linked to human herpesvirus 6 (HHV-6) and HHV-7. This virus starts with a high fever and eventually causes a pinkish-red rash consisting of small, raised bumps on the skin. The rash typically starts on the trunk of the body before spreading to the limbs and face. Most people who develop roseola are children between three months and four years of age. Roseola rash. Courtesy of Dermnet Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease Hand, foot, and mouth disease (HFMD) occurs when you come into close contact with someone who has the infection. This can happen when you are exposed to germs when an infected person sneezes, coughs, or blows their nose near you. This virus is most contagious during the first week of illness. Symptoms of HFMD often develop three to five days after exposure and can last seven to ten days. During this time, you may experience a fever, sore throat, loss of appetite, and a rash that looks like tender or painful small blisters on the hands, feet, and diaper area. It's also common for sores or ulcerations in the mouth, throat, and tongue to develop. Hand, foot, and mouth disease rash. Courtesy of Dermnet Shingles Shingles, also known as herpes zoster, is a viral infection caused by the reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus—the same virus responsible for chickenpox. This reactivation results in a painful rash that typically appears as a band or stripe of fluid-filled blisters on one side of the body, often wrapping around the torso. When you have shingles, it's common to experience a burning or tingling sensation or extreme sensitivity in the affected area. Over the course of 14 to 21 days, the blisters gradually crust over and heal. While the rash itself may subside within a few weeks, some people may experience nerve pain, known as postherpetic neuralgia, which can persist for months or even years after the rash has healed. Shingles rash. Courtesy of Dermnet Zika Virus You can develop the Zika virus through mosquito bites and having sex with someone who has the infection. Pregnant people can also pass the virus to their babies during childbirth. As a result of the virus, you may experience a rash that looks flat or slightly raised and causes small red or pink spots on your body. Many people who contract the Zika virus can also experience fever, joint pain, muscle aches, headache, and conjunctivitis (red eyes). These symptoms can last for a few days to a week. Pregnant people and those planning to become pregnant should take special precautions to avoid Zika virus exposure, as this infection can increase the risk of birth defects in babies born to a birth parent who has the infection during pregnancy. Zika rash. Courtesy of Dermnet Molloscum Contagiosum Molluscum contagiosum is highly contagious and can spread through direct skin-to-skin contact, as well as by touching contaminated objects. This viral skin infection results in the formation of small, round, raised bumps on the skin. These bumps, called "Mollusca," are typically smooth and firm, flesh-colored or pearly, and can grow as large as a pencil eraser. Generally, bumps appear anywhere on the body. This infection tends to occur for a longer period than other viral rashes. The bumps typically resolve in six to 12 months but can take up to four years to heal. Molloscum contagiosum rash. Courtesy of Dermnet A viral rash is different than an allergic reaction because an infection causes it. With an allergic reaction, no infection is present. Instead, the rash occurs in response to the body's immune reaction to a substance, such as a food, pet dander, or pollen. While several types of infections can cause a viral rash, each virus can produce its own subset of symptoms. Depending on the infection you have, you might experience: Chickenpox: Itchy red spots, fluid-filled blisters that crust over, bumps that start on the face before spreading Measles: Red and blotchy rash that starts on the face, fever, cough, runny nose, red eyes, and small white spots in the mouth Rubella: Pinkish-red rash that starts on the face, mild fever, swollen lymph nodes, and joint pain Fifth disease: Redness on the cheeks, lacy rash on the body and limbs, mild fever, headache, and fatigue Roseola: A rash that appears pink or red and starts on the trunk before spreading to other body parts, high fever before the rash develops, and mild respiratory symptoms like shortness of breath Hand, foot, and mouth disease: Sores and blisters on the hands, feet, mouth, and butt, fever, sore throat, malaise (or a general feeling of being unwell), and difficulty eating or drinking due to painful sores in the mouth Shingles: Painful fluid-filled blisters, discomfort on or near the rash site, and a burning, itching, or tingling sensation Zika virus: Small and flat red or pink spots that start on the face, fever, joint pain, headache, and redness in the eyes Molluscum contagiosum: Small, round, and raised bumps, sores that are flesh-colored or appear pearly, and bumps that occur in clusters and feel itchy Knowing how viral infections spread is important so you can understand how to prevent contracting these viruses and developing rash symptoms. The cause of each viral infection can differ. Here's a breakdown of what causes each infection and how the infection spreads: Infection Cause How It Spreads Chickenpox Varicella-zoster virus (VZV) Direct contact with someone who has the infection and being exposed to germs that can spread when they sneeze, cough, or blow their nose Measles Measles virus, also known as paramyxovirus Germs from an infected person who coughs or sneezes near you  Rubella Rubella virus Coming into close contact with someone who has the infection, or passing the virus to your baby while you're pregnant Fifth disease Parvovirus B19 Exposure to someone who has the virus and direct contact with their germs after they sneeze, cough, or talk Roseola  Human herpesvirus 6 (HHV-6) or human herpesvirus 7 (HHV-7) Close proximity to someone who has the virus Hand, foot, and mouth disease Coxsackievirus A16 and enterovirus 71 Having close contact with an infected person's saliva, feces, or fluid from the blisters Shingles Reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus in adulthood Being near someone who has the virus, especially if you aren't vaccinated or didn't have chickenpox as a child Zika virus  A virus from the Flavivirus genus, a family of mosquitos that carry Zika Getting bit by a mosquito, having sex with someone who has the virus, or passing the virus on to your baby while you're pregnant Molluscum contagiosum A type of poxvirus known as the molluscum contagiosum virus Skin-to-skin contact with someone with the virus or contaminated objects If you develop a rash, it's a good idea to contact your healthcare provider to learn what may be causing your symptoms. Your healthcare provider will likely ask you about your medical history and perform a physical exam (or ask you to send photos of your rash if your appointment is via telehealth) to learn more about your rash. In many cases, your provider can make a diagnosis based on what your rash looks like. However, if the cause of your rash is unclear, they may also refer you to an infectious disease specialist or a dermatologist (a doctor who specializes in the skin). In addition to taking your medical history, your healthcare provider may also order the following tests to learn more about your infection: Allergy testing Blood tests Skin biopsy Skin scrapings Depending on the type of viral rash you have, your healthcare provider can offer specific recommendations to clear up your symptoms. Self-care is generally the most common treatment option. Before trying at-home treatments, talk to your provider to see if home remedies are safe. Most rashes will eventually resolve on their own over time. In the meantime, your healthcare provider may recommend the following treatment methods: Allow the affected area to breathe by keeping it uncovered, if possible Avoid rubbing or scratching your skin or applying cosmetic products directly onto the rash Use lukewarm water for cleansing and opt for mild cleansers, shampoos, and conditioners Gently pat dry your body after showering instead of harshly rubbing with a towel Try over-the-counter 1% hydrocortisone cream or use a stronger formula that you can receive via prescription from your provider Use calamine-medicated lotion, petroleum jelly, or anti-itch lotion, and stop using new lotions or cosmetics that may have caused your symptoms You can prevent viral rash symptoms through proper vaccination. It is important to ensure you are up-to-date on vaccinations to prevent contracting and spreading contagious viruses. This is especially true for children, pregnant people, and travelers going outside of the country. Some rash-causing viruses that have vaccines available include: Chickenpox Measles Rubella Shingles Work in schools or in areas where infections can easily spread. The following strategies can also limit the spreading of some viruses: frequent handwashing, disinfecting surfaces, ensuring good ventilation in the building, avoiding close contact with people who are sick, and covering your mouth when you sneeze or cough. Many potential complications can come from various rash-causing viruses. You may be at risk of experiencing complications if you are not vaccinated for certain infections or do not seek treatment when you develop symptoms. Complications tend to vary depending on the exact infection you have but may include: Chickenpox: Joint pain and swelling, viral pneumonia, and Reyes syndrome (which affects the liver, blood, and brain) Measles: Ear infections, pneumonia, and encephalitis (brain swelling) Fifth Disease: Severe anemia (or, low production of red blood cells in your body) Hand, foot, and mouth disease: Dehydration due to difficulty swallowing Molluscum contagiosum: Increased risk of having a repeat infection Roseola: Fever and seizures in young children Rubella: Birth defects if you contract the infection during pregnancy Shingles: Persistent nerve pain even after the rash has healed Zika virus: Neurological (brain-related) abnormalities and birth defects in a developing fetus if you develop the virus during pregnancy It's a good idea to contact a health provider if you show signs of a viral rash. Getting a correct diagnosis and treatment can help you know how to best care for yourself. Also, consult a medical provider if you have any questions or concerns about your symptoms—and seek medical care right away if you are having trouble breathing, your rash covers your whole body, you're in pain or have open sores, or the rash is on your eyes, mouth, or genitals. A rash on your skin can often be a symptom of an underlying viral infection. If you contract a virus, it's also common to experience accompanying symptoms such as a fever, headache, muscle discomfort, joint pain, or swollen lymph nodes. Many viral rashes start on the torso or facial area and often extend to other body regions. Each rash can look different—depending on the exact infection that is causing your symptoms. You may notice raised areas, redness, dots or bumps, itchy patches of skin, and blisters that are filled with fluid. A variety of infections can cause a viral rash, such as measles, chickenpox, and shingles. Fortunately, rashes tend to go away when your infection starts to heal. In most cases, your symptoms may subside without any treatment. However, if you are concerned about your condition, it's good practice to see your provider and ask for treatment recommendations and at-home remedies that can improve your symptoms and speed up the healing process. Thanks for your feedback! 21 Sources Health.Com uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read our editorial process to learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. About Molluscum Contagiosum. MedlinePlus. Chickenpox. MedlinePlus. Measles. InformedHealth.Org. Institute for Quality and Efficiency in Health Care (IQWiG). Rubella (German measles): Overview. Centers For Disease Control and Prevention. About Parvovirus B19. MedlinePlus. Roseola. MedlinePlus. Hand-foot-mouth disease. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. About Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease. MedlinePlus. Shingles. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Treatment and Prevention of Zika Virus Disease. Cerbino-Neto J, Mesquita E, Souza TL, et al. Clinical Manifestations of Zika Virus Infection, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, 2015. Emerging Infectious Diseases. 2016;22(7):1318-1320. Doi:10.3201/eid2207.160375 American Academy of Dermatology. Rash 101 in Adults: When to Seek Medical Care. American Academy of Dermatology. Hives: FAQS. MedlinePlus. Rubella. MedlinePlus. Rashes. American Academy of Dermatology Association. How to Care for a Child With Chickenpox. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Vaccine Schedules For You and Your Family. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Preventing Infectious Diseases. MedlinePlus. Reye Syndrome. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Measles Symptoms and Complications. MedlinePlus. Fifth disease.

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Measles, Mumps And Rubella: How Do We Eliminate Them?

University students have been urged to make sure they are protected

By the age of five, 92.2% of children in Wales are protected against measles, mumps and rubella.

This puts it above the other UK nations - with 86.4% having had the full dose of the vaccine in England, 91.3% in Scotland and 91.4% in Northern Ireland.

However, Public Health Wales (PHW) said it was still "suboptimal" for preventing further outbreaks of measles.

It is below the World Health Organization's target of 95% to protect a population from a disease.

But despite recent outbreaks, a health boss said a push now put eradicating the illnesses within reach if there was a 95% uptake and teenagers and young adults who missed out on vaccination were targeted.

What is MMR?

The MMR vaccination protects against three infections - measles, mumps and rubella (also known as German measles).

Mumps is a contagious viral infection which causes a headache, joint pain and high temperature, and measles gives cold-like symptoms, a temperature and sore red eyes.

Rubella creates a fever and red rash.

The UK lost its measles-free status earlier this year, with cases of the potentially deadly infection going up because not enough people, of all ages, have been vaccinated.

It is one of the world's most contagious diseases, a viral illness spread by coughing and sneezing.

Although most people who catch it will recover, it can lead to life-threatening complications.

Why are unvaccinated students at risk?

The mumps virus is very contagious and can be passed through saliva

There have been increasing outbreaks of mumps, including in universities because people "gather in close proximity for fairly large periods of time", according to Prof Jonathan Ball, from the University of Nottingham.

Cardiff University, Cardiff Metropolitan University and the University of South Wales have advised students to be aware of symptoms after an outbreak in Wales.

PHW has urged people to make sure they have received their vaccination.

When do you usually have the MMR jabs?

Generally, the first dose of the MMR vaccine is given to children aged between nine and 15 months, with the second dose any time up until the age of six.

The jabs have helped greatly reduce the numbers of children suffering from the wide-ranging symptoms.

How long does the MMR vaccine protect you for?

It is unclear how long exactly the jabs last for, but most people can be expected to be protected for much of their life

The length of protection against the illnesses is described as "very long-lasting" by the NHS, with two doses protecting 99% against measles and rubella.

It is slightly less effective for mumps, which protects 90% to 95% of people, with its effectiveness declining over the years.

How do we eliminate it?

PHW said more youngsters need to receive injections to prevent further outbreaks, as well as adults who missed theirs when they were young.

"MMR vaccination remains the best form of protection against both measles and mumps infection," a report by PHW said.

"The suboptimal MMR uptake in children is of concern and should be actively addressed to prevent further outbreaks and maintain elimination of measles in the longer term."

In England, a mandatory vaccination is being looked at, but the Welsh Government said it was not something under consideration.

"In Wales, uptake of the first dose of MMR vaccine in two-year-old children has remained relatively stable at around 95%," a spokesman said.

"Vaccination is the most effective means of protection and we would urge people to ensure they and their dependants are fully vaccinated from preventable diseases."

Head of immunisation at Public Health England Dr Mary Ramsay said "action needs to be taken now" to eliminate the illnesses.

"A future free of measles and rubella is within reach if we continue to focus our efforts on reaching 95% uptake with two doses of MMR for all children and catch up teenagers and young adults who missed out," she added.

This piece has been inspired by questions from BBC Wales News readers.

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