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Fifth disease

Fifth disease is a usually mild infection caused by parvovirus B19. Children often develop bright red cheeks followed by a lacy rash; adults more often have joint pain. The infection needs extra attention during pregnancy, with a chronic condition involving red blood cell breakdown, or with a severely weakened immune system.

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Fifth disease is a usually mild infection caused by parvovirus B19. Children often develop bright red cheeks followed by a lacy rash; adults more often have joint pain. The infection needs extra attention during pregnancy, with a chronic condition involving red blood cell breakdown, or with a severely weakened immune system.

  • Mild fever, headache, sore throat, runny nose, tiredness or nausea in the initial phase.
  • Bright red cheeks with relatively pale skin around the mouth, particularly in children.
  • Let a child drink what they can manage and offer small amounts regularly; monitor urination and alertness with fever.
  • Keep nails short and cool itchy skin; prevent sunburn, as heat can make the rash flare up.
  • Seek advice the same working day after exposure or possible symptoms during pregnancy, with reduced immunity or with a chronic blood condition.
  • For urgent GP care outside normal opening hours, call HAP 9252. Call Ambulance 912 only for an immediately life-threatening situation.

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Childhood illnesses with rashesRashes in children are often caused by a virus and usually clear up on their own, but not every rash is harmless. Pay particular attention to purple or red spots that do not fade under pressure, unusual drowsiness, difficulty breathing, a stiff neck or rapidly worsening illness: these may indicate meningococcal disease or sepsis and need immediate emergency help. Measles and rubella are especially important during pregnancy and in people with a weakened immune system. Have your child assessed if you are unsure, especially with a high fever, dehydration or if they look ill.
S
ShinglesShingles is a painful rash caused by reactivation of the chickenpox virus. Blisters usually form in a band on one side of the body or face. Treatment works best when a doctor assesses early whether an antiviral is needed. A rash near the eye, nose or ear, a severely weakened immune system, pregnancy or rapidly becoming more unwell needs particularly prompt assessment.
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RubellaRubella is a contagious viral infection that is often mild, but can seriously harm a baby during pregnancy. A rash alone is not reliable for diagnosis: if you suspect rubella, call before entering a practice, and call the same day if you are pregnant or have been exposed.