Dr. M.J. Bazos, MD
Patient Handout
FIFTH
DISEASE
About Your
Diagnosis
Fifth disease is a mild, infectious viral
illness that occurs in outbreaks often during the winter and spring. It is named
for its position on a list of childhood diseases developed in the early 1980s.
It is caused by a virus called the human parvovirus B19. It spreads by airborne
particles. Symptoms generally appear 4–14 days after exposure. It affects
mostly children aged 5-14 years. There is no prevention, and the child is no
longer contagious after the rash
appears.Living With Your
DiagnosisA fiery red rash appears on
the cheeks—the so called “slapped cheek” appearance. The rash
spreads to the rest of the body and usually has a “lacy” pattern. It
may fade and reappear for several days. Slight fatigue, headache, and itching
may occur. Fever is uncommon. Adults may experience mild joint pain and
swelling. Many cases show no symptoms at all. Complications are rare in healthy
individuals. Children with sickle cell anemia have an increased risk of
complications. There is a small risk of miscarriage in a pregnant woman if she
is infected during the first trimester.
TreatmentThere
is no specific treatment for fifth disease. Symptoms can be controlled.
Nonaspirin products such as Tylenol can be given if a fever is present or for
aches. DO NOT give aspirin to a child with fifth disease because of the risk of
Reye’s syndrome. The symptoms usually last 5–10 days.
The
DOs• Rest during the initial
phase of the illness.• Encourage
fluid intake; no special diet is
needed.• Use cool compresses or
calamine lotion if the rash
itches.The
DON’Ts• Don’t give
aspirin to a child with a viral infection. There have been studies that show an
increased risk of Reye’s syndrome when aspirin is given during a viral
infection.• Don’t be concerned
if the rash recurs after the illness is over, especially during exposure to the
sun and temperature changes.When to
Call Your Doctor• If symptoms
worsen with normal treatment.• If
symptoms of Reye’s syndrome occur, such as vomiting, restlessness,
irritability, and a progressive decrease in the level of
consciousness.Websites:National
Institute of Child Health and Human Developmentwww.nih.gov/nichd