Fifth disease is usually mild, but can have serious consequences for pregnant women and other groups at risk. Therefore, it is important to raise awareness about fifth disease among the public and health institutions and to carry out information activities. Dissemination of accurate information about the disease by providing access to informative resources can help protect both society and individuals at risk.
What is fifth disease?
Fifth disease is an infectious disease, especially in children, caused by a virus called Parvovirus B19. The most common way of transmission is through contact, and it spreads especially through contact with the nasal and oral secretions of a sick person. The name of the disease comes from the rash that appears on the cheeks and resembles slap marks. To answer the question of what causes fifth disease, we can say that it is caused by the Parvovirus B19 virus. Fifth disease symptoms include:
- Fever: Low fever (around 38°C)
- Headache: Mild headache
- Runny or stuffy nose: Mild runny or stuffy nose
- Fatigue: General fatigue and weakness
- Muscle and joint pain: Mild muscle and joint pain
- Rash: Red rash on the cheeks that resembles slap marks (may spread to other parts of the body after about 7-10 days)
Fifth disease usually has a milder course in children, but it can cause serious complications in at-risk groups such as pregnant women, people with weakened immune systems, and those with blood diseases. It can harm the baby, especially during pregnancy, and cause problems such as miscarriage, premature birth, or fetal anemia.
How is fifth disease treated?
Fifth disease is usually diagnosed by observing the symptoms and characteristic rash. No special treatment is usually required because the disease heals on its own. However, in at-risk groups and in severe cases, treatments recommended by the doctor can be applied. These treatments may include painkillers and antipyretics to relieve symptoms.
Because fifth disease is often contagious, it is important to take preventive measures. Hygienic measures, especially washing hands frequently after contact with sick people and limiting contact with sick people, can help prevent the spread of the virus. Women who are pregnant should avoid contact with infected people and take their children who show signs of infection to a healthcare provider.
How many days does fifth disease last?
Fifth disease can usually last from 3 days to 3 weeks. Symptoms are seen for an average of 6 days. The disease usually progresses as follows:
- The time between infection with the virus and the onset of symptoms is the incubation period. The incubation period is between 7-10 days.
- During the prodromal period, mild flu-like symptoms are observed.
- During the rash period, a red rash resembling slap marks appears on the cheeks. The rash usually spreads to other parts of the body within 1-2 days. The rash usually disappears after 7-10 days.