Pleading the Fifth about Fifth’s Disease
One of the many childhood illnesses that pops up commonly is Fifth’s Disease or erythema infectiousum. The nickname is called the slapped cheeks disease due to the distinct red rash that appears on the facial cheeks which looks similar to what a slap would look like. Caused by the human parvovirus B19, some children will get mild symptoms while others may not show signs of the disease at all. The reason for the name “Fifth’s Disease” is that this particular parvovirus is the fifth in line of a group of childhood diseases which cause rashes as well. The others are Duke’s Disease, measles, scarlet fever and rubella.
Common Symptoms
When children do show signs of symptoms, they often mimic other types of garden variety viruses. Runny nose, headache, sore throat and low grade fever are the precursor signs that could last several days, similar to a bad cold. However, about a week to ten days later, the tell tale red rash will appear on both cheeks making the skin around the mouth and other areas seem pale in comparison.
The red checks may feel warm to the touch but most likely, there will be no tenderness. Next, children may develop on their legs and arms a pink or red tinged lacy rash that typically shows up as the red cheeks begin to fade. Some children will experience a rash that is slightly raised while for others, it may be flat or itchy. The rash could spread depending on circumstances like exposure to the sun or a hot bath. This rash can come and go for up to a month or two.
Exposure
Fifth’s Disease is contagious during the runny nose, fever and coughing stage and by the time the rash is prominent, it is too late. They have already exposed the people in the household as well as friends. After exposure, it can take up to three weeks before the symptoms present themselves. Therefore, family and friends of the child should be on alert for possible symptoms once the rash appears on them.
About half of the people in the house who are exposed will get Fifth’s Disease but only about 1/5 of schoolmates or friends who are susceptible will. And don’t forget, once the rash appears, the contagious period is over so there is no need to hold back from school or other activities. The only thing that can be done is warn the teacher at school or daycare about the possibility of Fifth’s Disease spreading and the signs to watch for.
For most children, Fifth’s Disease is a minor inconvenience and some don’t feel bad at all when they contract it. No treatment is required as it is viral and just has to run its course. However, if the child has any blood disorders or immune system issues, there may be a very slight chance of complications. A trip to the doctor’s office would be in order to confirm any problems.
There are blood tests to confirm whether someone has had Fifth’s Disease. However, these tests are not done unless a child already has medical issues or a woman pregnant was exposed to it. Pregnancy can complicate how Fifth’s Disease affects pregnant women and their unborn child. Other complications with this viral disease can also occur in adults with arthritis. No one really knows the extent of the complications.
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