Rash
Most rashes are mild, but a few point to a serious infection or a severe allergic reaction that needs help within minutes.
Get emergency help now if any of these are true
- A rash that does not fade when you press a glass or finger on it, especially with fever
- Swelling of the lips, tongue, face or throat, wheezing, or difficulty breathing
- Blistering or peeling skin, or sores in the mouth, eyes or genitals
- Rash with a high fever, confusion or a stiff neck
- Rash spreading quickly with severe pain in the skin
If you are unsure, treat it as an emergency. Find your country's emergency number.
See a health worker or doctor today if
- Rash with fever that is not settling
- A rash that is spreading, weeping, or becoming hot and tender (possible skin infection)
- A new rash after starting a medicine
- Rash in a newborn, in pregnancy, or if you live with HIV
If it gets worse, or does not get better
- Do the glass test on any rash with a fever, and repeat it as the rash changes.
- Stop any new medicine you suspect and contact a clinician the same day.
- Get emergency help immediately if breathing or swallowing becomes difficult.
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