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Fifth Disease is an infection caused by the virus Parvovirus B19. Infection from this virus does not cause serious illness in most adults and children, however, it can be a concern for people with blood disorders, problems with their immune system and for pregnant women. The risk of contracting Fifth Disease is small as half of adults are already immune to this infection.
The Fifth Disease virus is spread through secretions of the nose and mouth by sneezing and coughing or by touching contaminated articles such as a used facial tissue and then touching your own mouth or nose.
A person with Fifth Disease can spread the infection to others before the rash develops. By the time the rash appears it is no longer contagious. Children with Fifth Disease can return to school and will not spread the infection to others after the rash appears. About half of all adults have had Fifth Disease and will not develop the infection again.
Fifth Disease begins with a mild illness that may result in a fever, tiredness, muscle aches and a headache. A few days later a very red rash appears on the child’s face- thus the name “slapped face disease”. A lacey rash also appears on the child’s body. This rash can last for days to weeks and can come and go. Adults may develop joint pain, which lasts a few weeks. A person is contagious and can spread the infection to others before the rash develops. When the rash appears, it is no longer contagious.
To prevent Fifth Disease, practice good handwashing, cover nose and mouth while coughing and sneezing and do not share eating utensils.
There is a slight risk of miscarriage in pregnant women who contract Fifth Disease. If you are pregnant and think you may have been exposed to Fifth Disease, consult your doctor.
Adapted from the Middlesex-London Health Unit. August 2005
Eisenber, Murkoff, and Hathaway. What to expect when you’re expecting. (1991)
14 Mar 2008 14:47:54 -0500
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