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No thanksFifth disease, also called "slapped cheek disease", is an infection caused by a virus called parvovirus B19. This is a common childhood illness and most often occurs in the winter and spring. Fifth disease may also occur in adults, however most adults have had this infection in childhood or adolescence.
Infection starts with a patchy red rash on the cheeks (slapped cheek appearance)
One to four days later, a lace-like rash develops on the rest of the body. The rash may last 1-3 weeks or longer and may come and go especially following exposure to sunlight, heat or bathing
In adults, the illness may include joint pain or arthritis and the typical rash may not appear
Up to 25% of people who are infected may have no symptoms at all
Symptoms usually begin 4-20 days after being exposed to someone with the infection.
Spread person to person by fluids from mouth, nose and throat, such as coughing and sneezing
Can be spread by touching objects that have been touched by an infected person such as sharing drinking cups or utensils
It can be spread from mother to unborn baby, or through transfusion of blood or blood products
A person with Fifth Disease is contagious during the early part of the illness before the rash and/or joint symptoms appear, and probably not contagious thereafter. Persons infected with the virus do develop lasting immunity that protects them against infection in the future.
For most people, Fifth Disease is usually a mild illness and resolves without treatment among those who are otherwise healthy. However, Fifth Disease can cause serious health problems for people with chronic blood disorders (such as sickle cell disease or leukemia) and for those who have problems with their immune system.
For a pregnant woman or her baby, usually there are no serious complications because of exposure to Fifth Disease. Pregnant women who are already immune are protected from infection and illness. Pregnant women who are unsure of their immunity should consult with their health care provider if they are exposed to discuss having a blood test to check their immunity and risk for infection.
There is no specific treatment for this infection as it is caused by a virus. However, exposed people at high risk of complications or serious illness should be closely monitored by their physician.
Exclusion of persons with Fifth Disease from work/school/daycare is not recommended because they are no longer contagious once rash appears. Routine exclusion of pregnant women from the workplace where cases of Fifth Disease is occurring is also not recommended. The decision to stay away from a workplace where there are cases of Fifth Disease is a personal decision for a woman to make after discussion with her family physician and employer.
Place any soiled facial tissues in the garbage immediately after use
Clean your hands often
There is no vaccine or medicine that prevents parvovirus B19 infection
This information is intended to provide general health-related information about Fifth Disease. It is not intended to replace medical consultation by your physician and/or other health care professionals.
Source: Control of Communicable Diseases Manual 19th D.L. Heymann, M.D. 2008 CDC Parvovirus B19 (Fifth Disease) Fact Sheet, 2005 CDC Parvovirus B19 Infection and Pregnancy Fact Sheet, 2005