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Fifth Disease

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fifth-disease

What is Fifth Disease?

Fifth disease is caused by human parvovirus B19. It often affects preschoolers or school-age children during the spring. The disease spreads through the fluids in the nose and mouth when someone coughs or sneezes.

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Fifth disease is known for a rash that makes a child's cheeks bright red. That's why it's sometimes called a "slapped cheek" rash. A few days later, the rash spreads down to the trunk, arms, and legs. It usually lasts 1 to 3 weeks.

  • Headache
  • Sore throat
  • Fever
  • Diarrhea
  • Runny nose
  • Itching
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Fatigue
  • Joint pain

Fifth disease (also called erythema infectiosum) is caused by parvovirus B19. The virus spreads in droplets when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or touches a surface. It is most contagious before the rash appears, when the symptoms seem like that of a common cold.

There is no vaccine to prevent fifth disease. To prevent the spread of infection: Wash hands often (Picture 1) Cover the mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing.

If an infected person talks, coughs or sneezes near your child, your child could become infected with the virus. Parvovirus B19 can also spread through blood exposure from a pregnant person to a fetus, but this is rare. However, fifth disease — the red rash caused by parvovirus B19 — isn't contagious.

How is it diagnosed?

How is it diagnosed?

Fifth disease is caused by a virus, so can't be treated with antibiotics (antibiotics kill bacteria, not viruses). In most cases, it is a mild illness that clears up on its own, so no medicine is needed. Usually, kids with fifth disease feel OK and just need to rest.

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How is it treated?

Treatment for acute myeloid leukemia is vital. It varies with the patient and stage of the disease. Treatment options include

There is no treatment for fifth disease. Most children get well without treatment. If your child has a fever or joint discomfort, you may give acetaminophen (Tylenol®) or ibuprofen (Motrin® or Advil®). Read the label to know the right dose for the age of your child.

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