What kind of rashes are contagious?
Rashes that are considered by many physicians to be contagious are as follows:
- Molluscum contagiosum (viral)
- Impetigo (bacterial)
- Herpes (herpes simplex, types 1 and 2 viruses)
- Rash caused by Neisseria meningitides (N.
- Rash and blisters that accompany shingles (herpes zoster virus)
- Ringworm (fungal) infections (tinea)
How long does a viral rash last?
Viral rashes are not allergic reactions. They are the result of an infection. Unlike an allergic reaction, viral rashes usually do not cause itching or pain. Viral rashes usually go away after a few days, but may last up to 2 weeks.
Are body rashes contagious?
What Is Skin Rash? There are many types of skin rashes, some are contagious and some are not. Most of those that are contagious are caused by bacteria, viruses, or fungi. Rashes caused by allergic reactions, physical trauma or environmental irritants are not contagious.
What does a spreading rash mean?
Sudden, spreading rashes can indicate an allergic reaction which, if accompanied by difficulty breathing, are extremely dangerous. If your rash blisters or develops open sores, or shows signs of infection, it’s important to get treatment as soon as possible. In short, see a doctor if you have a rash.
Why do you get a rash with a virus?
While they can look alarming, these rashes usually aren’t a cause for concern, and they disappear once the infection clears up. Viral rashes are caused by either an immune response to the virus or damage to skin cells from the virus.
Does scratching spread rashes?
Scratching the rash and then touching other areas of the body, or other people, will cause it to spread. Treatment of impetigo is with antibiotic creams or lotions, and for more severe cases, with oral antibiotics.
What does viral rash look like?
The characteristics of viral rashes can vary greatly. However, most look like splotchy red spots on lighter skin or purplish spots on darker skin. These spots might come on suddenly or appear gradually over several days. They can also appear in a small section or cover multiple areas.