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Fifth Disease (also known as erythema infectiosum) is a mild, common rash illness caused by a virus.
Symptoms
Rash; sometimes a low-grade fever, muscle aches, or headache can occur. Pain and swelling of the joints may occur, especially in adults. The characteristic rash causes a striking redness of the cheeks (“slapped cheek”) in children and typically starts 4 to 14 days (up to 21 days) after other symptoms. The rash often begins on the cheeks and is later found on the arms, upper body, buttocks, and legs. The rash tends to come intermittently, especially as a response to sunlight or heat. In general, the rash will fade within 10 days.
Symptoms
Rash; sometimes a low-grade fever, muscle aches, or headache can occur. Pain and swelling of the joints may occur, especially in adults. The characteristic rash causes a striking redness of the cheeks (“slapped cheek”) in children and typically starts 4 to 14 days (up to 21 days) after other symptoms. The rash often begins on the cheeks and is later found on the arms, upper body, buttocks, and legs. The rash tends to come intermittently, especially as a response to sunlight or heat. In general, the rash will fade within 10 days.
Spread
Through respiratory secretions when an infected person coughs or sneezes. A person with fifth Disease may be infectious without having symptoms.
Spread
Through respiratory secretions when an infected person coughs or sneezes. A person with fifth Disease may be infectious without having symptoms.
Contagious Period
Most contagious before the beginning of the rash and unlikely to be contagious after the rash begins.
Contagious Period
Most contagious before the beginning of the rash and unlikely to be contagious after the rash begins.
Exclusion
Exclusion
Child Care and School: None, unless the child is unable to participate and staff members determine they cannot care for a child without compromising their ability to care for the health and safety of the other children in the group.
Causes
Causes
Human parvovirus B19
Incubation
Incubation
It takes from 4 to 21 days, usually 4 to 14, from the time a person is exposed until symptoms begin.
Prevention/Control
Prevention/Control
Frequent, careful hand washing by child care staff, children and household members.
Dispose of tissues containing respiratory secretions properly.
Contaminated items should be sanitized
Is it Reportable?
Is it Reportable?
Parents/guardians: Inform your school/child care provider if your child has this illness.
Additional Notes
Additional Notes
Those who are pregnant should consult with their healthcare provider about the risk of Fifth Disease during pregnancy. Additionally, parents of children who have an impaired immune system, sickle cell anemia or other blood disorders may wish to consult their health care provider about exposure.
Disease Information Print out
Disease Information Print out
Fifth Disease.pdf
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