Skin Rashes Caused by Viral Infection

Rashes on the skin can exhibit similar qualities, such as redness, flaking, blistering or itching. Some rashes are viral in nature and can be passed on from person to person. Knowing the characteristics of viral rashes can help prevent their spread.

Chicken pox is a viral infection that causes an itchy rash on the torso, arms, face and legs. The blisters the rash causes are fluid-filled and can spread easily.

Measles is a common childhood infection that begins with a fever and exhibits a red rash on the cheeks. This rash turns brown and spreads from the face down to the neck and torso.

Fifth disease is a viral infection that begins with red eyes and a sore throat and ends with a bright red rash covering the face, torso, arms and legs.

Shingles resembles chicken pox, but the blisters are more elongated and the rash is localized to the torso and abdomen.

Herpes is a highly contagious virus that can be transmitted sexually and causes the genital area to produce red, fluid-filled blisters.