Summary about Disease
Fifth disease, also known as erythema infectiosum or "slapped cheek" disease, is a mild viral illness caused by parvovirus B19. It's most common in children but can affect adults. It typically presents with a distinctive red rash on the cheeks, followed by a lacy rash on the body.
Symptoms
Early Symptoms: Mild fever, headache, fatigue, runny nose, sore throat.
Rash: Bright red rash on the cheeks ("slapped cheek" appearance). A lacy, slightly raised rash then appears on the trunk, arms, and legs. The rash may come and go.
Joint Pain: More common in adults than children, causing achy or swollen joints, particularly in hands, wrists, knees, and ankles.
Causes
Fifth disease is caused by the parvovirus B19. The virus spreads through respiratory secretions, such as saliva, sputum, or nasal mucus, when an infected person coughs or sneezes. It can also be spread through blood products and from a pregnant woman to her fetus.
Medicine Used
There is no specific medication to cure fifth disease. Treatment focuses on relieving symptoms:
Fever and Pain Relievers: Acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) can help reduce fever and aches.
Antihistamines: May help relieve itching associated with the rash.
Is Communicable
Yes, fifth disease is communicable. It's most contagious during the early stages, before the rash appears, when the infected person has cold-like symptoms. Once the rash is visible, the person is generally no longer contagious.
Precautions
Good Hygiene: Frequent handwashing, especially after coughing or sneezing.
Avoid Sharing: Avoid sharing utensils, drinks, and other personal items.
Respiratory Etiquette: Cover coughs and sneezes with a tissue or elbow.
Pregnant Women: Pregnant women who are exposed to fifth disease should contact their doctor immediately, as it can pose risks to the fetus.
People with Weakened Immune Systems/Blood Disorders: Contact your doctor immediately if exposed as the disease can cause serious complications.
How long does an outbreak last?
An individual outbreak of Fifth Disease generally lasts 1-3 weeks for an individual. The rash itself can come and go for several weeks, especially with triggers like sunlight or heat. Community outbreaks can last for several months.
How is it diagnosed?
Fifth disease is usually diagnosed based on its characteristic rash. If the diagnosis is uncertain or if the patient is at higher risk for complications (e.g., pregnant women or people with weakened immune systems), a blood test can be done to detect parvovirus B19 antibodies.
Timeline of Symptoms
Incubation Period: 4-14 days (time from exposure to the virus to the start of symptoms).
Early Symptoms: Mild fever, headache, runny nose, sore throat (1-3 days). This is when the disease is most contagious.
Rash: "Slapped cheek" rash appears (1-3 days after early symptoms). Lacy rash follows on the body. The rash may come and go for 1-3 weeks, sometimes longer, triggered by things like heat or exercise.
Joint Pain: (More common in adults) May appear around the same time as the rash or shortly after and can last for weeks or even months.
Important Considerations
Pregnancy: Fifth disease can be dangerous to pregnant women as it can cause anemia in the fetus, leading to miscarriage or stillbirth in rare cases.
Weakened Immune Systems: People with weakened immune systems (e.g., those with HIV/AIDS or undergoing chemotherapy) or certain blood disorders (e.g., sickle cell anemia) are at higher risk of developing serious complications from fifth disease, such as severe anemia.
Adults: Adults are more likely than children to experience joint pain and stiffness as a symptom of Fifth Disease.