Several infections can cause skin rashes. The appearance of the rash, whether it itches, where it appears, and other symptoms help narrow the cause.
Viral infections
Common viral illnesses that cause rashes:
Chickenpox — itchy fluid-filled blisters and fever.
Measles — fever, cough, red eyes, then widespread rash.
Rubella — mild fever with pink rash.
COVID-19 — may cause hives, red spots, or “COVID rash.”
Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease — mouth sores with rash on hands and feet.
Herpes Zoster — painful blister rash on one side of the body.
Bacterial infections
Impetigo — honey-colored crusts, common in children.
Scarlet Fever — sore throat with rough “sandpaper” rash.
Cellulitis — red, swollen, painful skin.
Syphilis — may cause rash on palms and soles.
Fungal infections
Tinea Corporis — circular itchy patches.
Candidiasis — red itchy rash in skin folds.
Tinea Cruris — itchy groin rash.
Parasitic infections
Scabies — severe itching, especially at night, with tiny bumps or burrows.
Cutaneous Larva Migrans — winding itchy tracks on skin.
Sexually transmitted infections that may cause rash
Human Immunodeficiency Virus Infection — early infection can cause fever and body rash.
Genital Herpes — painful blisters or sores.
Warning signs to seek medical care quickly
Rash with difficulty breathing
Purple or black rash
High fever
Skin peeling
Painful widespread rash
Rash spreading rapidly
Rash with pus or severe swelling
If you describe:
where the rash is,
whether it itches or pains,
how it looks,
and any other symptoms,
