How to Identify Symptoms of Fifth Disease

Fifth's Disease is also known as erythema infectiosum, a viral illness that is a mild though infectious illness that often afflicts children between the ages of 5 and 15. Affecting the skin, outbreaks commonly occur in spring and winter months and cause redness of the skin. The disease got its name from being ranked fifth on a list of common childhood diseases.Risks of contracting Fifth's disease are increased in children attending schools and daycare centers, so if your child is experiencing any symptoms, it is wise to keep him or her out of school until until the illness subsides or until he or she is no longer contagious.The condition is caused by the virus parvovirus B-19 and is spread through germs carried in fluids of the nose, mouth and throat (via coughing and sneezing). Children are generally afflicted with symptoms within 4 to 28 days after exposure, but once the rash appears, a child is no longer considered contagious. Learning to identify symptoms of Fifth's Disease may help to prevent spreading.

Instructions

• 1

  Listen for complaints of headaches that are accompanied by a runny nose and an occasional low grade fever. Because these symptoms mimic that of colds or flu, it is often hard to distinguish the condtion without additional symptoms.

• 2

  Pay attention to any signs of rash that develop over the skin, either in the face, where it usually starts, or other body areas. The rash may look "lacy" and also itch to a varying degree.

• 3

  Ask your child if she has other problems, such as a sore throat. Check your child's eyes for redness and their glands for swelling. This is a sign that the body's immune system is trying to fight an infection.

• 4

  Watch for signs of diarrhea, which is common in those suffering from Fifth's Disease. Bouts of diarrhea may be relatively mild to moderate. Make sure to keep your child well hydrated if he experiences diarrhea!