THE FIFTH DISEASE
THE FIFTH DISEASE
Alexis Herrera
Dr. Konings
BioL 2401
Abstract
Fifth Disease is a rash illness caused by parvovirus B19. Fifth Disease also known as erythema infectiosum is more common in children than adults. A person usually gets sick within 4-14 days after getting infected with parvovirus B19. The first symptoms of Fifth Disease are usually mild and nonspecific. The first signs of Parvovirus B19 are fever, runny nose, and headache, and then after several days you may get a red rash on your face this is called the “slapped cheek rash” this is the most recognizable feature of fifth disease. Some people may get a second rash a few days later on their chest, back, buttocks or arms and legs. The rash can vary in intensity and may come and go for several weeks.
THE FIFTH DISEASE
Fifth disease got its name because it was fifth in a list of historical classifications of common skin rash illnesses in children. Parvovirus B19 spreads through respiratory secretions such as saliva, sputum, or nasal mucus, such as when an infected person coughs or sneezes. It is most contagious when It is in the “just a cold phase before you get the rash or joint pain and swelling. After the rash, you are probably not contagious, that is when it is usually safe for you or your child to go back to work or school. The contagious period may differ from many other rash illnesses. For example, people with measles might spread the measles virus through the rash; however people with fifth disease that weekend immune system may be contagious for a longer amount of time. Parvovirus B19 can also spread through blood or blood products, such as if a woman is pregnant and has the parvovirus B19 she might pass the virus to her baby.
DIAGNOSIS
Healthcare providers often diagnose fifth disease just by the "slapped cheek" rash on a person’s face. also by doing a blood test, and with that blood test you will be able to tell if you are susceptible or immune to fifth disease or if you
Alexis Herrera
Dr. Konings
BioL 2401
Abstract
Fifth Disease is a rash illness caused by parvovirus B19. Fifth Disease also known as erythema infectiosum is more common in children than adults. A person usually gets sick within 4-14 days after getting infected with parvovirus B19. The first symptoms of Fifth Disease are usually mild and nonspecific. The first signs of Parvovirus B19 are fever, runny nose, and headache, and then after several days you may get a red rash on your face this is called the “slapped cheek rash” this is the most recognizable feature of fifth disease. Some people may get a second rash a few days later on their chest, back, buttocks or arms and legs. The rash can vary in intensity and may come and go for several weeks.
THE FIFTH DISEASE
Fifth disease got its name because it was fifth in a list of historical classifications of common skin rash illnesses in children. Parvovirus B19 spreads through respiratory secretions such as saliva, sputum, or nasal mucus, such as when an infected person coughs or sneezes. It is most contagious when It is in the “just a cold phase before you get the rash or joint pain and swelling. After the rash, you are probably not contagious, that is when it is usually safe for you or your child to go back to work or school. The contagious period may differ from many other rash illnesses. For example, people with measles might spread the measles virus through the rash; however people with fifth disease that weekend immune system may be contagious for a longer amount of time. Parvovirus B19 can also spread through blood or blood products, such as if a woman is pregnant and has the parvovirus B19 she might pass the virus to her baby.
DIAGNOSIS
Healthcare providers often diagnose fifth disease just by the "slapped cheek" rash on a person’s face. also by doing a blood test, and with that blood test you will be able to tell if you are susceptible or immune to fifth disease or if you
References: American Academy of Pediatrics. 2003 Red Book Report on the Committee of Infectious Diseases National Center for Immunization and Respiratory Diseases, Division of Viral Diseases Sabella C, Goldfarb J (October 1999). "Parvovirus B19 infections". Am Fam Physician 60