Fifth Disease (Erythema Infectiosum)

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You are here : 3-RX.com > Medical Encyclopedia > Diseases and Conditions > Fifth Disease
Category : Health Centers > Infections (Infectious Diseases)

Fifth Disease

Alternate Names : Erythema Infectiosum

Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors | Symptoms & Signs | Diagnosis & Tests | Prevention & Expectations | Treatment & Monitoring

Fifth disease is a viral infection caused by parvovirus B19. It usually causes a rash and symptoms of mild illness.

What is going on in the body?

Fifth disease is caused by human parvovirus B19. It usually occurs in the spring in schoolage children, preschoolers, or adolescents. Fifth disease is spread through respiratory secretions. Symptoms appear 4 to 14 days after exposure.

What are the causes and risks of the infection?

Fifth disease is generally seen in children in day care, preschool, elementary school, and high school. Adults who are not immune to the parvovirus B19 can also develop fifth disease. It is spread from person to person by respiratory secretions. Coughing and sneezing spread the disease.

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		Fifth Disease: Symptoms & Signs

Author: James Broomfield, MD
Reviewer: Eileen McLaughlin, RN, BSN
Date Reviewed: 08/09/01

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