Virus hives (urticaria) look like raised, red or skin-colored welts (wheals) that are very itchy, similar to mosquito bites, appearing suddenly in clusters or patches, and can change shape or move around the body, often with fever or other viral symptoms like runny nose or fatigue. They can vary in size, from tiny spots to large patches, and may have white centers, disappearing in hours but leaving no trace, only for new ones to form.
The most common cause of hives all over the body is viral infections. Research has confirmed this. Other symptoms such as a fever, cough or diarrhea are also present. The hives may last 3 days.
Foods. Illnesses and infections are among the most common cause of hives in children. Common infections that may cause hives include colds and some bacterial or fungal infections. Illnesses such as vasculitis, lupus and thyroid disease, can also cause hives.
Yes, hives (urticaria) can cause dizziness, especially if they are part of a severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) with symptoms like trouble breathing, throat swelling, or a rapid pulse, which requires emergency care; otherwise, dizziness with hives can also signal a systemic issue like inflammation affecting the inner ear due to allergies, requiring medical attention to identify the trigger.
A viral exanthem rash is an eruption of spots, bumps or splotches that might occur with various viral infections. Talk to your healthcare provider about ways to prevent and treat viral infections.
Guessing can delay healing or lead to complications, so seeing a dermatologist ensures you start with the safest, most effective approach.
Here are five of the most common viral skin conditions that cause widespread rash:
There seems to be a relationship between acute hives and conditions like asthma, allergic rhinitis and atopic dermatitis, especially in children. You might also be affected by hives during periods of extreme stress.
Hives. Dermatologists have seen patients with COVID-19 who develop hives. This condition causes itchy welts that can appear on the skin in different ways, as shown here.
The rash is spreading. Hives keeps coming back – you may be allergic to something. You also have a high temperature and feel generally unwell. You also have swelling under the skin – this might be angioedema.
Some infections that can cause hives in children include respiratory viruses (common cold), strep throat, urinary tract infections, hepatitis, infectious mononucleosis (mono) and many other viral infections.
If at any time the hives are associated with other symptoms (high fever, bruising, purple skin discolouration or joint pains), your child should be seen by a doctor. If your child presents signs of anaphylaxis, then call an ambulance.
Peanuts, tree nuts, fish and shellfish commonly cause the most severe reactions. Nearly 8% of children under the age of 5 years have food allergies. Allergies to milk, egg, wheat and soy often resolve in childhood, but can persist for longer or can be lifelong for some.
Viral infection hives may occur all over the body. These hives can appear while you are sick or shortly after you've recovered from your infection. Hives after a viral infection usually stay on the skin for days or weeks. Sometimes, hives can be the only sign your body is fighting an infection.
While it may be uncommon and not used to reach a diagnosis of influenza, a rash is an existing feature of H1N1 influenza among young children. Viral infections can be a known trigger for hives, as well as a more common and clinically distinct non-itchy rash we refer to as a viral exanthema.
Persistent infection from decayed teeth can stimulate the immune system continuously. This chronic immune activity can lead to hypersensitivity reactions, where the immune system overreacts releasing histamine and causing hives.
Common New COVID Variant Symptoms in 2025
The most common symptoms of viral rashes include:
Night urticaria is due to allergen exposure near bedtime, such as certain bedtime medications, allergens in clothing and bedding, or temperature changes in the room.
The hives rash looks like raised bumps or welts on the skin that are usually itchy, but may also sting. These can be red or skin-coloured. The raised areas of skin are known as wheals. Patches of hives often join together to form larger swollen patches or urticaria.
To cure hives fast, use over-the-counter (OTC) antihistamines like cetirizine or fexofenadine, apply cool compresses or take cool baths, use anti-itch creams (hydrocortisone/calamine), and avoid triggers like heat, stress, or tight clothing; see a doctor for severe or persistent cases, especially if breathing difficulties occur.
One study found that individuals with chronic hives were more likely to have vitamin D deficiency compared to individuals without hives.
These outbreaks may happen during illnesses such as a cold, flu, mononucleosis, or even COVID-19. In these cases, hives are not caused by direct exposure to a virus on the skin, but by the body's internal reaction to the infection. In healthy individuals, hives often go away on their own within a few days.
Some common conditions that can resemble shingles include:
A rash can signal the end of a virus, appearing as the body clears the infection (like with roseola), but it doesn't always mean the virus is gone, as rashes can occur at various stages or linger, so it's important to see a doctor if you're concerned or have other severe symptoms. While most post-viral rashes are harmless and resolve with time, they're a sign of the immune system fighting the infection and aren't a reliable indicator of the virus's exact status, notes the Healthdirect website and my.clevelandclinic.org.