Fifth Disease (erythema infectiosum):
Definition:
Bright red or rosy rash on both cheeks for 1 to 3 days ("slapped cheek" appearance)
Rash on cheeks is followed by pink "lacelike" (or "netlike") rash on extremities
"Lacy" rash mainly on thighs and upper arms; comes and goes several times over 1 to 3 weeks
No fever or low-grade fever (less than 101°F [38.4°C])
Information on Fifth Disease from WebMD
Similar Conditions:
Fifth disease was so named because it was the fifth pink-red infectious rash to be described by physicians. The other four are:
- Scarlet fever
- Measles
- Rubella
- Roseola
Cause:
- Fifth disease is caused by the human parvovirus B19.
Expected Course:
This is a very mild disease with either no symptoms or a slight runny nose and sore throat. The lacelike rash may come and go for 5 weeks, especially after warm baths, exercise, and sun exposure.
HOME CARE
- No treatment is necessary. This distinctive rash is harmless and causes no symptoms that need treatment.
Contagiousness:
- Over 50% of exposed children will come down with the rash in 10 to 14 days.
- The disease is mainly contagious during the week before the rash begins.
- Exposed children should try to avoid contact with pregnant women, but that can be difficult.
- Once the child has "slapped cheeks" or the lacy rash, he is no longer considered contagious and does not need to stay home from school.
- Pregnant women exposed to Fifth Disease should call their obstetrician.
CALL OUR OFFICE IMMEDIATELY if:
- Your child has not urinated for more than 6-8 hours
- Your child starts acting very sick
DURING REGULAR HOURS if:
- The rash becomes itchy.
- Your child develops a fever over 102°F (38.9°C).
- You have other concerns or questions.
Information from the NY State Dept. of Health
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