Fifth Disease

What is fifth disease?

Fifth disease is a viral infection that causes mild fever and a characteristic "slapped-cheek" rash.

It is most common among school-aged children, but also can affect adults. Fortunately, about half of all adults have already had this disease and cannot get it again.

A virus called Parvovirus B19 causes fifth disease, also called erythema infectiosum. It is spread from person-to-person when there is direct contact with fluids or mucus from the nose or mouth of someone infected with it.

The time period from infection until symptoms begin (the incubation period) is usually 4 to 14 days, but may be as long as three weeks.

Treatment / What you should do

A child with fifth disease usually has minimal if any discomfort. Treat their symptoms as necessary.

Rest and lots of liquids will help with any cold symptoms. Anti-itch medications like the antihistamine diphenhydramine (Benadryl) may be helpful if the rash is itchy. Acetaminophen can be given if fever or joint pains occur. Antibiotics are not helpful because a virus causes fifth disease.

Prevention

It is difficult to avoid infection with fifth disease, as infection usually is spread before the rash breaks out.

Once a person has the rash, he is no longer contagious. Covering your mouth when you cough or sneeze, frequent hand washing, cleansing of toys, and avoiding contact with people who are sick, can all help decrease the chances of developing viral illnesses.