This image displays the appearance of "slapped cheeks" typical in fifth disease.

The first stage of erythema infectiosum includes firm, red cheeks that feel warm, appearing like "slapped cheeks."

This image displays the widespread red bumps and slightly elevated lesions seen in erythema infectiosum (fifth disease).

Fifth disease causes a rash on the cheeks and a more widespread rash that typically involves the trunk and arms.

This image displays red, fluid-filled bumps typical of fifth disease.

This image displays the typical lace-like redness on the trunk and limbs 1-4 days after the redness on the cheeks.

This image displays the extensive rash typical of fifth disease (erythema infectiosum).

Images of Fifth Disease (Erythema Infectiosum) (7)

Fifth Disease (Erythema Infectiosum)

Fifth disease (erythema infectiosum), also called slapped-cheek disease, is a common illness in young children due to infection with parvovirus B19. Fifth disease is spread by contact with others who are infected, specifically by exposure to fluid from the nose (respiratory secretions). The illness lasts approximately 5 days, but the rash may keep coming back for a few weeks, particularly with exercise, heat, fever, or stress. If a pregnant woman becomes infected, the infection can be harmful to the unborn baby. Fifth disease can also cause arthritis, although this is more commonly seen in infected adults.

Who's At Risk?

Fifth disease occurs all over the world. Lab studies show that about half of adults have been infected, although they may never remember being ill. The disease is common in pre-school and school-age children.

Signs & Symptoms

Bright redness of the cheeks is the classic initial sign, without affecting the areas around the mouth. About a day later, the rash shows up as a faint red, “lacy” rash on the trunk, arms, and legs. There may also be a fever or joint pain.

Self-Care Guidelines

If your child has fifth disease, it is not necessary to keep him or her away from other people because the infection is contagious before the rash appears, not after.

Notify any pregnant women who have been around your child that they have been exposed so they can notify their doctor.

You may give your child acetaminophen (Tylenol®) or ibuprofen for fever or joint pain as needed.

Treatments

There is usually no need for testing, as the disease is easily recognized.

No treatment is required, as this illness will go away on its own.

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If your child has a weak immune system (from leukemia, a blood disease, or HIV/AIDS), notify the doctor if you suspect your child has fifth disease.

Trusted Links

References

Bolognia, Jean L., ed. Dermatology, pp.1260-1261. New York: Mosby, 2003.

Freedberg, Irwin M., ed. Fitzpatrick’s Dermatology in General Medicine. 6^th ed. pp.2054, 2057-2058. New York: McGraw-Hill, 2003.

Disease Groups: Childhood Contagious Diseases

Last modified on October 10th, 2022 at 7:56 pm

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