All about 5th disease or erythema infectiosum

How do you get the 5^{e disease}

The 5th disease mainly affects school-age children, aged 5 to 10, without excluding adults. It is transmitted through respiratory secretions (nose, throat) or by touching objects or hands contaminated with secretions. Once the rash is present, the disease is no longer contagious.

Incubation of the 5^{e disease}

Between contamination and the appearance of the first symptoms, it can take between 4 and 14 days.

What are the symptoms of the 5^{e disease}

Often the child has no symptoms until the rash appears. But it is possible to have general malaise, mild fever, sore throat, headache and runny nose. Muscle pain is also possible.

Rash of the 5^{e disease}

The rash manifests in three distinct phases over a period of 6 to 10 days. The face is affected first: thecheeks flush as if they had been slapped. About two days later, the rash spreads to the limbs, especially the forearms and thighs, and sometimes to the rest of the body.

Don't worry if the spots turn red and raised, with a purplish or yellowish center. It is possible that the disease progresses in this way.

The characteristic pink rashes of 5^{e disease look like lace.}

Warning

In the weeks following illness, redness may reappear after stress, sun exposure, hot bathing, friction, or exercise.

How to cure the 5^{e disease}

There is no specific treatment for 5th disease. Give fluid to keep the child well hydrated and use acetaminophen as recommended for fever and muscle aches. In case of itching, give warm water baths with baking soda or Aveeno which can be obtained at pharmacies.

Is there a vaccine against the 5^{e disease}

As there is no vaccine against this disease, the only way to be immune is to have developed antibodies after being exposed to the disease. It is believed that 50% of adults are not immune to 5th disease.

Pregnancy and 5^{e illness}

The 5th disease can pose a serious risk for the fetus, which can then develop severe anemia. The risk oftransmission to the fetus is one in ten, and the risk of death of the infected fetus is about 0.5%. When a pregnant woman is exposed to fifth disease, she should consult her doctor.