Contagious Rashes: What Parents Should Know

Skin Rashes: How Can I Tell if a Rash is Contagious?

When you spot a rash on your child, one of the first thoughts is probably "Can this spread to others?" It's a completely natural worry. The good news is that many common childhood rashes aren't contagious at all, and there are clear signs to help you figure out what you're dealing with.

What makes a rash contagious?

A rash is contagious when it's caused by something that can spread from person to person. This usually means bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites. Think chickenpox, impetigo, or ringworm. These conditions create rashes as part of an infection that your child's body is fighting.

On the flip side, many rashes come from things that can't spread between people. Eczema, contact dermatitis from poison ivy, heat rash, and allergic reactions all cause skin changes but aren't infections. Your child might have gotten into something irritating, had an allergic reaction, or their sensitive skin might just be reacting to the weather.

What you might notice with contagious rashes

- Fever or feeling unwell along with the rash

- Pus or honey colored crusting (like impetigo)

- Circular, scaly patches that spread outward (ringworm)

- Fluid filled blisters that pop and scab over (chickenpox, cold sores)

- Rash that started after being around other sick kids

- Red, streaky lines spreading from a wound or scratch

Signs the rash probably isn't contagious

Most rashes that appear without other symptoms, stay in one area, or match up with something your child touched or ate are likely not contagious. Eczema patches, diaper rash, heat rash, and most allergic reactions fall into this category.

If your child feels fine, is eating and playing normally, and the rash isn't spreading rapidly, you're probably dealing with something that won't pass to siblings or classmates.

When to keep them home

Use the fever rule as your guide. If your child has a fever along with their rash, keep them home until they've been fever free for 24 hours. Many schools and daycares also ask that children with weeping, oozing, or crusty rashes stay home until these clear up, even without fever.

For rashes with blisters (like chickenpox), children usually need to stay home until all blisters have scabbed over and dried up.

When to worry

Head to emergency if the rash appears suddenly with trouble breathing, swelling of the face or lips, or if your child seems very unwell.

Contact your doctor or text Arlo if you're seeing fever with the rash, pus or honey colored crusting, red streaks spreading from the rash, or if you're just not sure what you're looking at. We can help you figure out next steps and whether your child needs to stay home.

The takeaway

Most childhood rashes are harmless and not contagious. Trust your instincts, and when in doubt, ask for help.

You can always text Arlo and talk to a provider in 5 minutes!

References

- [Skin conditions](https://caringforkids.cps.ca/handouts/health-conditions-and-treatments/skin_conditions) (Canadian Paediatric Society)

- [Common skin rashes in children](https://www.aboutkidshealth.ca/browse/browse) (AboutKidsHealth, SickKids)

- [When to keep your child home from school or daycare](https://www.ontario.ca/page/common-infections-child-care-settings) (Ontario.ca)