1 Answer

Fifth disease is an illness.
It is called "fifth" disease because it is was the 5th viral rash discussed in medical textbooks.
What causes fifth disease?
Fifth disease is caused by a viral infection called Parvovirus B19.
Who can get fifth disease?
Anyone can get fifth disease in any part of the world.
It is most common in children ages 5-15.
Infections happen most often in the late winter and early spring.
What are the symptoms of fifth disease?
Symptoms may begin like a mild cold, with a slight fever, stuffy or runny nose, and a headache.
These symptoms usually pass. A rash may show up 6-11 days later.
The bright red rash usually begins on the face. The cheeks look like they have been slapped.
The rash can spread in blotches to the trunk, arms, legs, and bottom. The center of the rash may clear up. The rash looks like a net or lace.
Most children do not have an itch or fever. The rash may itch some older children and adults.
Sunlight, heat, exercise, and stress can make the rash worse.
Other symptoms could include swollen glands, red eyes, sore throat, diarrhea, and a rash that looks like blisters or bruises.
Some older children and adults with fifth disease also may have joint pain or swelling (in the hands, wrists, knees, and ankles).
Children with leukemia, blood disorders, and a weak immune system may become very ill from fifth disease. They may become anemic, pale, have a fast pulse, and breathe very fast. They will probably feel tired, sick, and have a fever. They often do not have a rash.
Some people with fifth disease will not have any symptoms, especially adolescents or adults.
Is fifth disease contagious? Yes