What is Fifth Disease (Erythema Infectiosum)?
Erythema infectiosum, also known as slapped-cheek rash and fifth disease, is caused by the virus parvovirus B-19. The main symptom of fifth disease is a rash.
Prior to the rash occurring, your child will likely have other viral symptoms such as:
fever
headache
sore throat
upset stomach
The fifth disease rash usually appears as the child is beginning to feel better from the initial viral symptoms. It can include bright red cheeks (known as ‘slapped cheek’) and a lace-pattern (net-like) rash on the chest, arms and legs.
The rash usually doesn’t cause any other symptoms. Parvovirus can be dangerous to children with sickle cell disease and, in rare cases, can be dangerous to a developing fetus.
Fifth Disease Treatment
Parvovirus is harmless and so is its rash. If the rash is not itchy then you don’t need to apply any cream.
If the rash is itchy:
You can apply an unscented moisturizing cream like Aveno or Eucerin. It’s best to do this after a warm bath while the skin is till damp
You can apply an over-the-counter 1% hydrocortisone cream up to 3 times per day to the itchy areas
Pregnant women who come into contact with someone with parvovirus should call their doctors to evaluate the risk to the fetus. Their doctor will usually test them to see if they’ve had parvovirus before and if not, will monitor the fetus closely even though complications are rare.
When can my child return to school?
Once the rash of parvovirus appears – either ‘slapped cheek’ or ‘lace-like’ – your child can no longer spread the virus and can return to school as long as they do not have a fever.
See a Doctor in Person If…
If fever last more than 5 days
If congestion or runny nose lasts for more than 10 days
If your child develops ear pain
If your child looks really sick with a concerning decrease in activity level even without a fever
If your child isn’t drinking enough and you’re concerned for dehydration
If your child has a bad cough, chest pain, or difficulty breathing