What should you know about zika rash symptoms?

The rash may appear as small red or pink spots or slightly raised patches across the trunk, arms, or legs. It can spread and may occur around the same time as mild fever, sore joints, conjunctivitis, headache, or muscle aches. A rash alone cannot identify Zika: heat, contact irritation, medicines, infections, and inflammatory skin conditions can look similar. Atopic Dermatitis, Contact Dermatitis, Drug Rash, Heat Rash, Intertrigo, Psoriasis, Ringworm, and Scabies are examples of other explanations.

Arrange medical advice if the rash follows travel or residence in an area where Zika can occur, or if it comes with fever or joint symptoms. Note when it began, where it started, whether it itches, and any new medicines, products, bites, or travel. Drink fluids, rest, use cool compresses, and avoid scratching. Do not start a new medicine for the rash without checking that it is suitable, especially if pregnancy is possible. Until assessed, reduce mosquito bites with long clothing, screens, and repellent used as directed.

Seek urgent help for trouble breathing, swelling of the lips or face, faintness, confusion, severe weakness, or rapidly blistering or peeling skin. Contact a clinician promptly for a rash with high fever, severe headache, marked eye pain, severe joint pain, bleeding, dehydration, or symptoms during pregnancy. A clinician may decide whether testing or monitoring is appropriate based on timing, exposure, symptoms, and pregnancy status.

Could this pattern fit an infection or a skin condition? Do I need testing based on recent travel or mosquito exposure? Which pain or fever medicines are appropriate for me? Should I take extra precautions around mosquitoes or sexual contact? What changes should prompt a same-day review?