Fifth Disease

What is fifth disease?

Fifth disease (erythema infectiosum) is a contagious and usually mild viral infection that is common in children. It is caused by parvovirus B19. Adults can get it too. It is sometimes called slapped-cheek disease because of the rash that some people get on the face. You spread the disease by coughing and sneezing.

Fifth disease is usually a mild infection that lasts a few weeks. It can be more serious for people with weak immune systems or blood disorders, such as sickle cell disease.

Exposure to fifth disease during pregnancy should be avoided, if possible. If you are pregnant and exposed to a child who has fifth disease, or if you develop a rash like that caused by fifth disease, you should contact your doctor.

What causes it?

Fifth disease is caused by a virus called human parvovirus B19. (Only humans can catch and spread fifth disease. Although there are other parvoviruses that infect animals, you cannot catch these from your pet or any other animal.)

The virus is contagious. People can spread fifth disease by sneezing or coughing while they have flu-like symptoms and before they get a rash. Usually, by the time the rash appears, you can no longer spread the disease to anyone else. Some people, such as those who have weak immune systems or blood disorders, may be able to spread the disease for a longer time.

What are the symptoms?

Symptoms usually appear about 2 weeks after exposure to the virus. Early symptoms are similar to the flu—fever, runny nose, sore throat, headache—and may be so mild that you don't notice them.

The rash comes several days later, first on the face and later over the rest of the body. It may be itchy. The rash may last for 7 to 10 days. The rash may come and go for several weeks. This doesn't mean that the infection is worse.

Some people also get pain in their joints. This can last for several weeks or even months. Some people don’t have any symptoms.

How is it diagnosed?

Your doctor can diagnose fifth disease by doing a physical exam and asking questions about your medical history. The disease is easier to diagnose if you have the rash.

Tests aren't usually needed, but they may be done in some cases to confirm that you have fifth disease.

How can you care for yourself when you have fifth disease?

Fifth disease usually goes away on its own. Antibiotics don't help. That's because the illness is caused by a virus, not bacteria.

Home care can help with symptoms until you feel better.

• Get extra rest.
• Drink plenty of fluids. If you have kidney, heart, or liver disease and have to limit fluids, talk with your doctor before you increase the amount of fluids you drink.
• Be safe with medicines. Read and follow all instructions on the label.
  • Use acetaminophen (such as Tylenol), ibuprofen (such as Advil or Motrin), or naproxen (Aleve) for fever, headache, or joint pain.
  • Do not give aspirin to teens. It has been linked to Reye syndrome, a rare but serious illness.
  • Take an over-the-counter antihistamine, if your doctor says it is okay.
• Do not scratch your rash. If your rash itches, add a handful of oatmeal (ground to a powder) to your bath. Or you can try an oatmeal bath product, such as Aveeno.

If you are pregnant or have a weak immune system or certain blood disorders, see your doctor. You may need extra checkups, tests, or treatment.

Try not to spread the illness. Wash your hands often and stay home from school or work.