Fifth Disease

Fifth disease is an infection caused by human parvovirus B19 and is spread through hand-to-mouth contact or respiratory secretions.  Usually considered a childhood illness, it is also known as “slapped cheek disease”, because children who have it get a distinctive bright red rash on their cheeks.

About 50% of women are immune to fifth disease because they had it in childhood, often without knowing it. You only need to be concerned about it during pregnancy if you aren’t immune.  An adult infected with fifth disease may have no symptoms or may have flu like symptoms, such as headache, sore throat, or joint pain.  These can be caused by a number of other conditions.  Many adults are not aware they have the virus.  But once you’ve had the infection, you develop antibodies and are immune forever.  A simple blood test can determine whether you carry antibodies against parvovirus B19.

Right now, there are no clear guidelines for pregnant women who work or live with small children.  If a pregnant woman is certain she has fifth disease, there is no need to be concerned about exposure to the disease.  If she is uncertain, a blood test can determine whether she has had fifth disease in the past and is thus immune.  Pregnant women who are not immune should wash their hands thoroughly after touching tissues and dispose of them promptly.  She should also avoid sharing drinking glasses or utensils with anyone who has the illness or was exposed to it.

There is no evidence or treatment for the disease itself, but Tylenol and plenty of fluids an treat the flu like symptoms.