What Causes Sixth Disease

The human herpesvirus (HHV) type 6 causes this contagious illness that mostly affects infants and toddlers. Adults are often immune after having the illness during childhood. The virus goes away in about a week without treatment.

How did my child get roseola?

Roseola is caused by a type of herpes virus. The virus can enter the body through the nose and mouth. It is spread when a child breathes in droplets that contain the virus after an infected person coughs, sneezes, talks, or laughs.

Is roseola a STD?

Roseola, also called exanthem subitum and sixth disease, is a common, contagious viral infection caused by the human herpesvirus (HHV) 6. This strain of the herpes virus is different than the one that causes cold sores or genital herpes infections. Roseola occurs most often in children aged 6 to 24 months.