Slapped cheek syndrome (fifth disease) is a viral infection that is common in children. It usually clears up on its own within 3 weeks.
Slapped cheek syndrome is not as common in adults but it can be more serious for an adult.
Symptoms of slapped cheek syndrome
The first sign of slapped cheek syndrome is that your child feels generally unwell for a few days.
Symptoms may include:
- a high temperature of 38 degrees Celsius or more
- runny nose
- sore throat
- headache
Children usually get a bright red rash on both cheeks 1 to 3 days after getting the virus. Adults do not always get a rash.
A few days after your child gets the rash on their face, they may get a light pink rash on their body. The rash can feel raised and may be itchy.
![young child with light pink raised rash on their cheeks and shoulders]](https://assets.hse.ie/media/images/condition_slapped_cheek_syndrome.width-320.jpg)
Causes of slapped cheek syndrome
Slapped cheek syndrome is caused by a virus called parvovirus B19.
Spreading slapped cheek syndrome
It's hard to avoid spreading slapped cheek syndrome. Most people do not know they have the infection until they get the rash. The infection usually spreads before the rash appears.
The virus spreads to other people, surfaces or objects by coughing or sneezing near them.
How to reduce the spread
There are things you can do to help reduce the risk of spreading the virus.
Do
-
wash your hands often with warm water and soap
-
use tissues to trap germs when you cough or sneeze
-
bin used tissues as quickly as possible
-
tell your child's school if your child has the virus - they do not have to stay off school if they feel well
How long the rash lasts
The cheek rash usually fades within 2 weeks.
The body rash also fades within 2 weeks but sometimes comes and goes for several weeks.
Things that can cause the rash to return include:
- exercise
- heat
- anxiety
- stress
Adults might also have joint pain and stiffness. This can continue for many weeks, even after the other symptoms have gone.
Treatment for slapped cheek syndrome
Go to your GP if you think your child has slapped cheek syndrome. Your GP can give you advice about symptoms.
There are things you can do to help ease symptoms while the infection clears up.
Do
-
make sure they get lots of rest
-
give them plenty of fluids to avoid dehydration - continue to give babies their normal feeds
-
give paracetamol or ibuprofen for a high temperature, headaches or joint pain - follow the instructions on the packet
-
talk to a pharmacist about how to ease itchy skin - they may recommend an antihistamine
Important
Do not give aspirin to children under 16
Non-urgent advice: Contact your GP if:
you have been near someone with slapped cheek syndrome and you:
- are pregnant - parvovirus (slapped cheek disease) and pregnancy
- have a weakened immune system - for example, because of chemotherapy or diabetes
- have a blood disorder such as sickle cell anaemia or thalassaemia - there's a risk of severe anaemia
Urgent advice: Contact your GP and ask for an urgent appointment if
you think you or your child has slapped cheek syndrome and they:
- are paler than usual
- are short of breath
- have extreme tiredness
- are fainting
These can be signs of severe anaemia. They might be sent to hospital for a blood transfusion.
