Fifth Disease
Current as of: December 12, 2018
Author: Healthwise Staff
Medical Review:Adam Husney, MD – Family Medicine & John Pope, MD, MPH – Pediatrics & Kathleen Romito, MD – Family Medicine
Fifth disease (erythema infectiosum) is a contagious and usually mild viral illness that is common in children. Early symptoms of fifth disease are like flu symptoms, which are then followed by a rash on the face that looks like slapped cheeks and a lacy pink rash on the backs of the arms and legs, torso, and buttocks…
Current as of: December 12, 2018
Author: Healthwise Staff
Medical Review:Adam Husney, MD - Family Medicine & John Pope, MD, MPH - Pediatrics & Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine
12/12/2018
This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated, disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. Learn how we develop our content.
Fifth disease (erythema infectiosum) is a contagious and usually mild viral illness that is common in children. Early symptoms of fifth disease are like flu symptoms, which are then followed by a rash on the face that looks like slapped cheeks and a lacy pink rash on the backs of the arms and legs, torso, and buttocks.
This illness is most contagious the week before the rash appears. After the rash has started, the child usually is no longer contagious. The rash may come and go for several weeks in response to changes in temperature and sunlight.
Home treatment with rest, fluids, and pain relievers can help keep the child comfortable.
Fifth disease, although usually a mild illness in children, poses a slight risk to developing fetuses. Pregnant women should avoid being exposed to the disease if possible. If a pregnant woman is exposed to a child who has fifth disease, or if she develops a rash like that caused by fifth disease, she should contact her doctor.
Current as of: December 12, 2018
Author: Healthwise Staff
Medical Review:Adam Husney, MD – Family Medicine & John Pope, MD, MPH – Pediatrics & Kathleen Romito, MD – Family Medicine
This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated, disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. Learn how we develop our content.
Current as of: December 12, 2018
Author: Healthwise Staff
Medical Review:Adam Husney, MD - Family Medicine & John Pope, MD, MPH - Pediatrics & Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine
12/12/2018
This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated, disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. Learn how we develop our content.