What it means
A mild viral illness, mostly of school-age children. After a few days of cold-like symptoms, a bright red rash appears on the cheeks ("slapped cheek"), followed by a lacy rash on the body and limbs. By the time the rash shows, the child is usually no longer contagious. The name comes from its place as the fifth of the classic childhood rash illnesses.
For the nurse
Pregnant people should report exposure, because the virus can harm the fetus. Children with sickle cell disease can develop a sudden, severe anemia. In the hospital, droplet precautions are used for some clients.
At a glance
| Spanish | quinta enfermedad (eritema infeccioso) |
|---|---|
| Also written | erythema infectiosum, parvovirus B19 infection |
Related terms
infectious disease
An illness caused by a germ such as a bacterium, virus, fungus or parasite.
erythema
Redness of the skin caused by more blood flowing in the small vessels near the surface.
roseola
A common viral illness of babies and toddlers caused by human herpesvirus 6 or 7.