What Is Fifth Disease?

Fifth disease is also called as erythema infectiosum, which literally means 'infectious redness'. Due to its appearance, it is also called by names such as the slapped cheek syndrome or slapped face. The origin of this condition was found to be Parvovirus B19, in the year 1975.

The crucial symptom to identify the fifth disease is the bright red colour of the cheeks occurring in children as a result of an infection. However, the rash does not lengthen above the bridge of the nose or the area surrounding the mouth. Additionally, children can also get a red lacy rash on the remainder of the body, with the upper parts of the limbs being the most commonly affected areas. If affecting babies or infants, the skin can even attain a purplish colour.