How to Treat Fifth Disease

Fifth disease (erythema infectiosum) is also known as the slapped cheek disease because it typically causes a bright red rash on the face, which later spreads down the body. Primarily occurring in childhood, the disease generally produces mild symptoms, often consisting of headache, low-grade fever and a runny or stuffy nose. These symptoms manifest about a week to 10 days before the rash appears.

Things You'll Need

• Acetaminophen
• Ibuprofen
• Oatmeal

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Instructions

• 1

  Keep the affected child in school. Children with fifth disease do not need to be kept home from school unless they feel sick. By the time the rash appears, they are no longer contagious.

• 2

  Give the child an oatmeal bath if the rash causes itching. A commercial oatmeal bath called Aveeno is excellent and will not clog your drain. If you use regular oatmeal, put it inside a nylon stocking and hold it under the running bathwater.

• 3

  Use mild lotions to help relieve itching. Avoid anything with perfumes, which can irritate the skin further.

• 4

  Use ibuprofen or acetaminophen to reduce fever, aches and pains.

• 5

  Keep the child out of the sun and away from excessive heat while the rash is present. Sunlight, heat, exercise and stress may also reactivate the rash once it has faded.