Fifth Disease in Children: Care Instructions

Overview

Fifth disease is a contagious viral infection that is common in children. It is caused by parvovirus B19. It is also known as "slapped cheek disease" because of the red rash some children develop on their faces.

Fifth disease is spread mostly by coughs and sneezes. By the time the rash appears, your child can no longer spread the disease to anyone else. After being infected with this virus, your child cannot get it again.

Fifth disease can cause symptoms like the flu. Your child may have a runny nose, sore throat, headache, and achy joints. A few days later, a bright red rash may appear on their cheeks and then may appear on the rest of the body. The rash may last for 7 to 10 days. The rash may come and go for several weeks.

Home care, such as rest, fluids, and pain relievers, is usually the only care needed for fifth disease. Doctors don't use antibiotics to treat fifth disease, because it is caused by a virus rather than bacteria.

Talk with your doctor if your child has any type of long-term anemia and is exposed to fifth disease. Fifth disease can make anemia worse.

How can you care for your child at home?

Fifth disease usually goes away on its own. Antibiotics don't help. That's because the illness is caused by a virus, not bacteria.

• Make sure your child gets extra rest.
• Have your child drink plenty of fluids. Watch for and treat signs of dehydration, which means that the body has lost too much water. Symptoms of dehydration include dry eyes and a dry mouth, passing only a little urine (no wet diapers for 6 hours), and feeling thirstier than usual.
• Give acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) for fever or pain. Read and follow all instructions on the label. Do not give aspirin to children and teens. It has been linked to Reye syndrome, a rare but serious illness.
• Be safe with medicines. Have your child take medicines exactly as prescribed. Contact your doctor if you think your child is having a problem with a medicine.
• Help your child avoid scratching the rash. If the rash itches:
  • Add a handful of oatmeal (ground to a powder) to your child's bath. Or you can try an oatmeal bath product, such as Aveeno.
  • Ask the doctor if your child can take an over-the-counter antihistamine.
  • Have your child wear loose-fitting cotton clothing.

When should you call for help?

Call 911 anytime you think you may need emergency care. For example, call if:

• Your child passed out (lost consciousness).

Contact your doctor now or seek immediate medical care if:

• Your child feels weak and tired and has pale skin. This could mean a problem with their red blood cells.
• Your child has a fever, fast breathing, and a racing heart, and has no energy.

Watch closely for changes in your child's health, and be sure to contact your doctor if:

• Your child does not get better as expected.