What is the fifth illness?

The fifth disease, also commonly known as a "slapped cheek disease", is a viral infection caused by parvovirus and characterized by bright red faces and pale mouths, hence the nickname. This disease gained its official name because it was the fifth disease of fever/rash, which was identified after others, such as Planná pox and measles. It is a harmless, common disease that most people have been exposed to at a time when they reach maturity, even if it can also affect adults. Beautiful and/or bumpy red rash can also spread to chest, back and abdomen. Heat and sunlight may worsen a rash that may disappear and reappear within a few months. In 25% of cases, fever can also occur along with slight symptoms of influenza. Headaches, body pain and muscle pain are not unusual with the fifth disease, then the rash breaks out one to three weeks later. Sometimes the rash occurs without previous symptoms. Many disabled children never show any symptomand the fifth disease and it is unnoticed and undiagnosed.

The fifth disease is very contagious because most viruses are. It extends human to human contact through cough, saliva or cold. It is most contagious than producing a rash, the day before the start of fever and while the fever is running. The contagious period ends 24 hours after breaking fever and the outbreak of the rash. The incubation period lasts approximately four to 14 days, but may take up to 21 days.

Although the fifth disease is a generally harmless disease, pregnant women who experience their first exhibition can show complications. The exhibition is the most dangerous in the first 20 weeks of pregnancy and there is a small chance of miscarriage. More than likely, most people were exposed in childhood and transmitted immunity to fifth illness.

There is a blood test for the diagnosis of fifth disease, but is generally used only to confirm the exposure uPregnant women. There is no treatment, but Benadryl is proposed to alleviate itching that occurs as a result of the rash. Some adults experience discomfort and swelling in the joints for several weeks. Painkillers can help with these symptoms.

In rare cases, people with anemia of sickle -shaped or other haemolytic anemia or immune deficiency disorders can experience sudden, strong anemia from the exposure of the fifth illness. This can be life -threatening, so it is recommended to visit a doctor or emergency room.