Also known as “slapped cheek disease” for the red rash it can cause on children’s faces, fifth disease is a common viral infection that affects the skin, airway and joints. Despite its rough nickname, experts say symptoms are usually mild and not a cause for concern.
Based on information from the Canadian Paediatric Society, the B.C. Centre for Disease Control and the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, here’s what you need to know about fifth disease.
What is fifth disease?
Fifth disease is caused by the virus parvovirus B19. Much like the common cold, it can spread through droplets in the air from coughs or sneezes, or by touching something contaminated with the virus and then touching your mouth, nose or eyes. It is most prevalent in late winter and early spring. Those who had it as a child usually won’t get it again. Minor outbreaks occur every three to four years.
What are the symptoms?
Initial symptoms can include low fever, headache and cold-like symptoms, which are then followed by joint pain and rashes that can appear on the faces of children, as well as on the torso, arms and other parts of the body. Rashes can be itchy and last between one and three weeks. The virus is most contagious before the rash starts. Symptoms may be more severe in adults.
How is fifth disease treated?
Cases are usually mild. Rest and fluids are advised, and symptoms like pain, aches and fever can be treated with common drugs like acetaminophen, commonly known as Tylenol. There is no vaccine. Fifth disease can be avoided with frequent hand washing.
Is fifth disease a cause for concern?
For most people and children, no. Fifth disease is not considered a notifiable disease, like hepatitis and measles, and cases are not tracked by public health authorities.
Pregnant people, however, can pass the infection to a developing baby, which can result in anemia, miscarriage or stillbirth in rare cases. Seek medical attention if you’re pregnant and you think you’ve been exposed. Those with anemia or a weakened immune system are also at risk of serious complications. Children should see a doctor if their fever persists for two to three days, or if they have ear pain or a sore neck.
Can kids go to school with fifth disease?
That depends on where you live, as local public health authorities are responsible for school guidelines on communicable diseases. But the general consensus is that kids can still go to school if they don’t have a fever.
Ottawa Public Health, for example, says exclusion from school is not required since children are no longer infectious once a rash appears, but they should stay at home with a fever. The B.C. Centre for Disease Control offers a similar recommendation.
The Canadian Paediatric Society says children can continue to attend child care or school if they feel well enough to partake in activities.
How did fifth disease get its name?
The term “fifth disease” comes from its place on an early 20th century list of rash-causing childhood diseases like measles and rubella. The name “slapped cheek disease” comes from the red rash it can cause on children’s faces.
