Fifth Disease (Parvovirus B19)

What is it?

• Commonly referred to as “Slapped Cheek Disease”
• A mild illness caused by Parvovirus B19
• It is common in daycare and school-aged children

Signs and Symptoms

• In some children it begins with a slight fever
• A bright red rash appears on cheeks, followed 1-4 days later by lace-like rash on arms, body and legs
• At least 50% of adults have had Fifth Disease in childhood and will not get it again if exposed to a child who has it
• Those adults who do get Fifth Disease may not get a rash but may have mild joint pain for about 2 weeks

Spread

• Spreads through the air when an infected coughs or sneezes
• Can be spread by hands or objects touched by an infected person

Treatment

• Mild illness, no treatment necessary

A child does not need to be excluded from daycare/school if they have Fifth Disease