Fifth Disease

• Fever
• Headache
• Sore throat
• Cough
• Upset stomach (diarrhea, vomiting, nausea)
• Sneezing
• Eye irritation/redness
• Rash (slapped cheek appearance then progressing to lacy appearing rash to extremities)
• Muscle or joint pain

Fifth Disease is caused by the Human Parvovirus B19 and is otherwise known as erythema infectiosum. Other than the rash, the above symptoms usually last 2-5 days. After this, the child develops a red rash on the cheeks commonly known as “slapped cheek. There can be a lacy appearing rash on the chest, back, arms, and legs. Often by the time the rash is present the patient will feel better. The rash can come and go and sunlight, temperature changes, stress, and exercise can make it appear more inflamed. Even when the rash appears to be more red, it should not be bothersome and is not harmful. Joint pain if present can affect hands, wrists, knees and feet.  Though rare, if someone who is pregnant gets fifth disease, it can be dangerous for their unborn baby, so we advise letting your OB know if you are pregnant and have been exposed. Fifth disease resolves on its own without treatment.