Fifth disease
Signs and Symptoms
1. A rash that start as reddish patches on the checks. Over the next few days, it becomes pink, slightly raised, and spreads the buttocks, torso, arms and thighs.
2. Fever, as high as 102 degrees.
3. Physical activity or bathing worsen the rash (sometimes).
4. Sore throat, headache, reddish eyes, and fatigue (sometimes).
5. Itchiness (sometimes).
What to do now
1. Encourage bed rest and give plenty of water and other fluids to your child if he or she feels sick.
2. For minor aches or pains, or discomfort from fever, you can give your child acetaminophen. (Never give aspirin to a child under 12 who has fifth disease, chicken pox, flu, r any other illness you suspect of being caused by a virus).
3. If the rash is itchy, apply a cream such as calamine lotion.
4. Fifth disease can harm a developing fetus, so keep your child away from pregnant women.
When to call a doctor
Call for advice and an appointment:
1. If your child is affected with any kind of rash. Fifth disease isn’t serious, but it has symptoms that can appear similar to those of more serious illness.
2. If your child develops new symptoms or a fever of 102 degrees or higher.
How to prevent it
Make sure your children wash their hands often. It will reduce the chance of spreading infections.