Parvovirus infection (fifth disease, erythema infectiosum)

What is Parvovirus B19?

Parvovirus B19 is a virus that causes fifth disease or erythema infectiosum. Fifth disease is also known as "slapped cheek syndrome." This is because it causes a red rash on the cheeks. Parvovirus B19 can spread from person to person. It spreads through droplets in the air or on surfaces we touch.

Signs and symptoms of Parvovirus B19

• mild fever, chills, headaches and other flu-like symptoms (these usually appear four to 14 days after the virus enters the body, and can last up to three weeks)
  
• rash that starts after seven to 10 days of symptoms. The rash typically starts on the cheeks, then spreads to the torso and looks red, blotchy and lace-like. The rash then spreads to the arms and the rest of the body
  
• the rash can be more well-defined after a warm bath (it can be itchy and last from seven to 21 days)
• joint pain or swelling

Parvovirus B19 spreads before the rash appears

Parvovirus B19 is typically spread from person to person when a person with the infection coughs or sneezes. The illness is most likely to spread before the rash appears. After the rash appears, a child is no longer contagious. Your child can attend school while they have the rash.

How to help your child with Parvovirus B19

Offer your child fluids often. This helps to avoid dehydration. Treat fever or pain with acetaminophen or ibuprofen.

Because Parvovirus B19 is caused by a virus, antibiotics will not work. There is no effective lotion or medication for the rash.

Children who are otherwise healthy usually get better after a few weeks.

You can reduce the risk of getting Parvovirus B19 by:

• avoiding close contact with people who are sick
• not touching your eyes, nose or mouth
• washing your hands frequently with alcohol-based hand sanitizer or soap and water

Once you get Parvovirus B19, you have lifelong immunity.

Complications

Parvovirus B19 can make children with immune system problems or blood disorders such as sickle cell disease or thalassemia more sick.

The virus can spread from a pregnant woman to her unborn child. If this happens, it can lead to severe and life-threatening conditions in the unborn baby.

When to seek medical assistance

Call your child's regular doctor if:

• your child has a blood disorder or a weakened immune system and you are concerned they may have Parvovirus B19 or have been in contact with someone with Parvovirus B19
  

Call your doctor if:

• you are pregnant and have been in contact with someone with Parvovirus B19
  

Go to the nearest Emergency Department or call 911 if your child:

• is unable to drink or eat and is becoming dehydrated
• has trouble breathing
• becomes very pale, tired or weak