Viral Hives in Children

Hives are irregularly shaped, raised red bumps with a paler center, caused by an allergic reaction in the skin. They appear suddenly and may come and go for a random period of time. Hives may be caused by exposure to an allergen or an insect bite, viral infection or underlying disease. There is a variety of treatments for hives, depending on the cause and severity of the attack.

Can children get hives?

• Up to 20 percent of children have hives some time in their childhood. In more than 80 percent of children the hives are caused by the body's response to a viral infection. These include the common cold and mononucleosis (Epstein-Barr Syndrome) and range through hepatitis A, B and C and even human immunodeficiency virus (HIV).

How do hives affect people?

• Hives are raised red blotches on the skin.

  Acute hives appear and disappear spontaneously on any part of the body, even inside the mouth. The attack may last a few hours or a few days. Hives usually itch or are painful.

Should I take my child to the doctor?

• There is no need to visit the doctor unless the hives are accompanied by other severe symptoms, including fever or joint pain. If hives are accompanied by swelling of the mouth and tongue or difficulty breathing, this is an indication of a potentially deadly allergic reaction called anaphylactic shock, and is a genuine emergency.

Can hives be prevented?

• Nuts are a common allergen that causes hives.

  Hives can be prevented through avoidance of known allergens. These may include foods like nuts, shellfish, eggs or milk. Environmental allergens like pet dander can also cause hives, so avoidance can help prevent them.

What can be done for hives?

• Histamine blocker medications may counteract hives.

  Topical treatments like cool compresses and hydrocortisone cream may be helpful. If the hives are caused by illness, there are prescription remedies that can control them. Epinephrine shots for a severe allergy attack can treat the hives.