Fifth Disease is viral infection characterized by a "slapped-face" or red appearance of the cheeks followed by a rash on the trunk and extremities. Fifth disease is a mild rash illness caused by parvovirus B19. It is more common in children than adults. A person usually gets sick with fifth disease within 14 days after getting infected with parvovirus B19.
Parvovirus B19, which causes fifth disease, spreads through respiratory secretions, such as saliva, sputum, or nasal mucus, when an infected person coughs or sneezes. You are most contagious when it seems like you have “just a fever and/or cold” and before you get the rash or joint pain and swelling. After you get the rash you are not likely to be contagious, so it is usually safe for you or your child to go back to work or school.
Transmission of infection can be decreased through routine hygienic practices including:
· Regular washing of hands
· Careful disposal of tissues
· No sharing of food utensils or water bottles
Children with Fifth Disease may attend school if they are free of fever. By the time the rash begins, they are no longer contagious as the rash may come and go for several weeks. We ask that parents assist in minimizing transmission by not sending unwell children to school. Children with a temperature higher than 37.6 degrees Celsius must remain at home for a minimum of 24 hours after the fever subsides without the aid of medication.
Pregnant parents and staff should consult their obstetrician if children in their care have Fifth Disease.
Treatment and prevention:
washing your hands often, for at least 20 seconds, with soap and water
covering your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze
not touching your eyes, nose, or mouth.
Avoiding close contact with people who are sick
staying home when you are sick
If you suspect your child has Fifth disease, do not bring them to school. If you suspect or have a confirmed case of Fifth in
your household, contact the Wellness Center Clinic Staff at Nurse@ishcmc.edu.vn or by phone at 02838989100 EXT 2105/2633
primary, or 1131/1132 secondary Health Center.
On return to school, your child must be assessed by the Clinic staff to ensure they are medically fit to return to class.