- Hives in children can develop for several reasons, including food allergies and viral infections.
- Food allergy-related hives typically appear immediately after eating a triggering food or within an hour.
- Viral hives are especially common in toddlers and can appear unexpectedly, even when no new foods have been introduced.
- Viral hives can last several days or even weeks, often moving around to different areas of the body.
- Antihistamines, such as Zyrtec, can help manage viral hives. Parents should contact their pediatrician if they are concerned or unsure what is causing the reaction.
Viral Hives vs. Allergic Hives in Children
Learn how to distinguish viral hives from food allergy-related hives in children, including common causes, symptoms, and treatment options.
Sarah Taylor-Black, MD
