Website:
www.health.state.ny.us/diseases/index.htm
see also www.cdc.gov/ncidod/diseases/Index.htm
Website:
www.health.state.ny.us/diseases/index.htm
see also www.cdc.gov/ncidod/diseases/Index.htm
New York State Department of
Health
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What is fifth disease?
Fifth disease is a viral infection which often affects red blood cells. It is caused by a human parvovirus (B19). For many years, fifth disease was viewed as an unimportant rash illness of children. Recently, studies have shown that the virus may be responsible for serious complications in certain individuals.
Anyone can be infected, but the disease seems to occur more often in elementary school-age children.
The virus is spread by exposure to airborne droplets from the nose and throat of infected people.
One to two weeks after exposure, some children will experience a low grade fever and tiredness. By the third week, a red rash generally appears on the cheeks giving a slapped face appearance. The rash may then extend to the body and tends to fade and reappear. Sometimes, the rash is lacy in appearance and may be itchy. Some children may have vague signs of illness or no symptoms at all.
People with fifth disease appear to be contagious during the week prior to the appearance of the rash. By the time the rash is evident, the person is probably beyond the contagious period.
In most cases, the disease is diagnosed based on the appearance of typical symptoms. A specific blood test to confirm the diagnosis has recently became available but is not necessary in healthy children.
It is thought that people who have been previously infected acquire long-term or lifelong immunity. Studies have shown that more than 50 percent of adults are immune to parvovirus B19.
At this time, there is no specific treatment.
While there is no evidence that parvovirus B19 infection is a significant cause of fetal defects, some studies have shown that infection may increase risk of miscarriage or spontaneous abortion. In people with chronic red blood cell disorders, such as sickle-cell disease, infection may result in severe anemia. Infection has also been associated with arthritis in adults.
Measures to effectively control fifth disease have not been developed yet. During outbreaks in schools, pregnant school employees and people with chronic red blood cell disorders should consult their physician and the local or state health department for advice.
If you are exposed to a case or develop symptoms of fifth disease while pregnant, you should consult your doctor. Blood testing is available at some private laboratories and at the New York State Health Department laboratory to determine if you are already immune or infected with parvovirus B19.
In addition to your doctor, information can be obtained from your local health department or the New York State Department of Health Healthy Baby Hotline at (800) 522-5006.
New York State Department of Health
Who gets fifth disease?
How is the virus spread?
What are the symptoms and when do they appear?
When and for how long is a person able to spread the disease?
How is fifth disease diagnosed?
Does past infection with the virus make a person immune?
What is the treatment?
What are the complications associated with fifth disease?
What can be done to prevent the spread of fifth disease?
What should I do if I an exposed to a child with fifth disease during my pregnancy?
Where can I call for additional information regarding fifth disease and pregnancy?
Send questions or comments to: nyhealth@health.state.ny.us
Revised: February 1999