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Is slapped cheek disease contagious?

Slapped cheek disease is very contagious, and many people the world over have been exposed to it.

FAQ Frequently asked questions

What is slapped cheek disease?

Slapped cheek disease, or fifth disease, is a common childhood illness caused by an infection with a virus called erythrovirus, or parvovirus B19.

What are the symptoms of slapped cheek disease?

The symptoms of slapped cheek disease usually appear about four to 14 days after infection. One in five people infected with the virus have no symptoms at all and may not know they've been infected. Early symptoms of fifth disease resemble …

What causes slapped cheek disease?

A virus called erythrovirus or parvovirus B19 causes slapped cheek disease.

Who gets slapped cheek disease?

Children four to 10 years of age are most commonly affected by slapped cheek disease. However, the disease can also appear in older children, teenagers and adults.

How is slapped cheek disease diagnosed?

Slapped cheek disease is usually diagnosed by its signs, especially the rash. If necessary, blood tests can be done to confirm a diagnosis.

How is slapped cheek disease treated?

There is no specific treatment for the slapped cheek disease.

Will the slapped cheek disease clear up on its own?

Slapped cheek disease will clear up on its own within a few weeks as the virus is cleared from the body.

What can be done at home to treat slapped cheek disease ?

Bed rest, plenty of fluids and, if required, medication against fever or aching, can help relieve symptoms of slapped cheek disease if they're too troublesome.

How is slapped cheek disease spread?

The virus that causes slapped cheek disease is spread via droplets from sneezes and coughs.

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About this article

Author: Dr Idan Ben-Barak PhD, MSc, BSc (Med)
First answered: 18 Sep 2014
Last reviewed: 19 May 2018
Rating: 4.0 out of 5
Votes: 173 (Click smiley face below to rate)
Category: Rubella

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