Common Illnesses
Fifth Disease (Slapped Cheek Syndrome)
Fifth disease is viral illness caused by parvovirus B19. Classic symptom: Bright red cheeks that look like they've been slapped, followed by lacy red rash on body/limbs.
Mild illness for most children. First symptom may be low fever and cold symptoms, then after a few days the distinctive red cheeks appear. Rash may come and go for weeks, triggered by sun, heat, exercise, or stress.
More common in ages 5-15 but can occur in babies. By the time rash appears, child is no longer contagious.
What to Do
- Understand this is usually mild illness requiring no treatment
- Manage symptoms: Acetaminophen or ibuprofen for fever or discomfort
- Keep baby comfortable and hydrated
- Rash doesn't itch (usually) and doesn't need treatment
- By the time you see red cheeks rash, baby is no longer contagious
- Baby can return to daycare once rash appears (not contagious anymore)
- Rash may reappear for weeks when baby gets hot, exercises, or in sun
- Protect skin from sun exposure - may trigger rash to reappear
- Fifth disease gives lifelong immunity - won't get it again
- Alert pregnant women who were exposed - can be dangerous to fetus in first 20 weeks
When to call a doctor
Call doctor if baby has severe anemia symptoms (very pale, lethargic), joint pain/swelling, or if pregnant (fifth disease can be dangerous to unborn babies). For typical case, call for guidance but usually resolves on its own.