In general, the severity of a rash and fever does not relate to the severity of an illness. It is more important to assess how ill a person feels or is behaving. An unexplained rash that looks like bruises (purpura) or blood spots under the skin (petechiae) and that occurs with fever and signs of illness may indicate a serious infection or medical condition that requires immediate medical care. Prompt medical treatment may prevent serious complications and even loss of life.

A sunburnlike rash that starts 2 days after a fever of 102°F (38.9°C) or more may be caused by a rare condition called toxic shock syndrome.

A rash and fever may occur with conditions such as a local skin infection or a viral illness, such as a cold, the flu, strep throat, or mononucleosis.

A health professional can evaluate your symptoms and recommend treatment.