Self Care Articles

Fifth Disease-Viral Rash

2025-03-31

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Is this your child's symptom?

  • Viral rash that starts with red cheeks and spreads to the shoulders

Symptoms of Fifth Disease

  • Bright red cheeks on both sides for 1 to 3 days. Looks like "slapped cheeks".
  • Followed by pink "lace-like" (net-like) rash of arms and legs.
  • "Lacy" rash mainly is on thighs and upper arms/shoulders.
  • Rash also is on chest and stomach in 50% of children.
  • The rash does not itch or hurt.
  • No fever or low-grade one less than 102° F (39° C).
  • Peak age: 4 -12 years.

Cause of Fifth Disease

  • It is caused by the human parvovirus B19.
  • Not related to the dog parvovirus.

Prevent Spread to Others

  • Good hand washing can prevent spread of this illness.
  • Once the rash occurs, the child can no longer spread the virus.

When to Call for Fifth Disease-Viral Rash

When to Call for Fifth Disease-Viral Rash
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Copyright 2000-2025 Schmitt Pediatric Guidelines LLC. Date Updated: 2025-03-31T13:32:54.713Z Version 0.1

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