Diarrhea, fever and rash

Viral illnesses can affect the gut and skin together. Chickenpox usually causes an itchy blistering rash, while COVID-19 and common cold symptoms may accompany fever and bowel upset. A red, hot, tender area can suggest cellulitis rather than a generalised viral rash. Brucellosis is worth mentioning after unpasteurised dairy or close animal contact. In young children, bronchiolitis, croup and acute bronchitis mainly affect breathing, but fever and reduced feeding can contribute to loose stools or dehydration. A new medicine can also cause diarrhea and a rash, especially if accompanied by swelling or breathing difficulty.

Sip water or oral rehydration solution regularly and continue suitable foods as tolerated. Keep the rash clean, avoid scratching and note when it began, where it started and whether it blisters or spreads. List every new medicine, supplement and food, including the timing of each. Do not share towels or utensils if an infectious rash is possible. Avoid anti-diarrheal medicine when blood is present or fever is high unless advised by a clinician.

Get emergency help for breathing difficulty, facial or tongue swelling, collapse, confusion, a stiff neck, a rapidly spreading rash, purple or bruise-like spots, severe abdominal pain, blood in stool or inability to drink. Seek same-day advice for a child who is unusually sleepy, feeding poorly or passing much less urine. Prompt review is also sensible when fever continues, the rash is painful, or symptoms began soon after a medicine.

Does the rash pattern fit an infection, irritation or medicine reaction? Should I stop or change any recently started medicine? Do I need a swab, stool test or other examination? How can I protect household members?