FIFTH DISEASE
Fifth disease can be particularly problematic in a childcare setting because a child or adult is contagious before symptoms occur. Transmission of fifth disease is from by direct contact from person-to-person through respiratory secretions.
Here are the symptoms:
• A red rash on the child’s face, often looks like the child has been slapped.
• A lace-like rash on the child’s trunk and arms and legs.
• The rash can reappear for several weeks when child is in the sunlight, change in temperature or emotional stress.
• In some children 1-4 days before rash appears, they may have a fever, sore throat or pain and swelling in the joints.
• It can take 4-21 days after a child has been exposed to develop the rash
Usually outbreaks of fifth disease occurs in late winter or early spring and it may continue during the school year. A parent or provider can help lessen infection by practicing good cleanliness practices. Teaching the children good handwashing procedures, how to properly disposal of tissues, keep clean and sanitizing food preparation and eating area, will lessen the spread of the infection.
Resource
New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services
Disease Handbook for Childcare Providers REVISED –January 2018
Disclaimer
This information is for general purposes only and should not be construed as a substituted for professional advice from your health professional. We do not support self-diagnosis based on any information found in this fact sheet. We are not responsible for any self-diagnosis made by a reader based on information found in this fact sheet. It is merely meant to be an informational tool to present warning signs that should be brought to the attention of a medical doctor.