Fifth Disease

Suppose you notice a distinctive rash on your child's cheek. Do you know what your child has? It could be fifth disease, also known as erythema infectiosum or "slapped cheek disease".

Historically, doctors came up with five classic infections most kids get during childhood. Among them were measles, scarlet fever, German measles (Rubella), and a mysterious rash/infection known only as fourth disease. Erythema infectiosum was fifth on this list, hence the common name "fifth disease".

If fifth disease is contracted during pregnancy there is potential harm to the fetus. Especially during the first half of pregnancy, anemia may develop if the disease is contracted. However, it is estimated that half of pregnant women have immunity from fifth disease. Those who do become infected during pregnancy will likely not have serious problems - the serious complications occur in 5% of pregnancies.

The most common methods for spreading fifth disease are coughing and sneezing. It is most common in children but adults can get it too. If flulike symptoms are present, but the rash has not appeared yet, the individual is contagious. If someone with fifth disease has an impaired immune system or a blood disorder their period of contagiousness may be longer.

This condition is viral - caused by the virus human parvovirus B19. Contrary to some rumors, this parvovirus cannot be caught fro the family pet. It is not the same parvovirus veterinarians are concerned about, and these can't go between animals and humans.

A person may have fifth disease for anywhere from 4 to 20 days before symptoms show. The first symptoms may mimic mild flu, with no fever, usually a rash on the face, and later on a rash can appear on the body. The rashes will fade in a few days to a few weeks, but can reappear in sunlight and warm temperatures. Once the rash is present, the individual is usually not contagious. It is then safe to go back to work and school.

More severe symptoms, which occur more often in adults than kids, include headaches and joint pain and swelling.

Not every person infected with the disease will develop a rash or even feel sick.