Natural Vitamins

The 5th viral rash discussed in medical textbooks is known as 5th disease (Erythema Infectiosum). The Parvovirus B 19 causes this viral infection. A person of any age can be afflicted with this disease. Children in the age group 5 to 15 years are most commonly affected by it. Infections due to the virus occur late in winter or in early spring.

The signs and symptoms of the syndrome are as follows. 5th's begins with a mild cold, a slight fever, a headache, and a running or stuffy nose. In some people absolutely no symptoms are present.

During this initial period that lasts from six to eleven days, the disease is in the contagious phase. It is spread by the drops of fluid in the throat or mouth during coughs and sneezes. Infection spreads easily between family members or between children in the same classroom. If your child already has developed a rash, it means the disease is no longer in the contagious phase. You can then send him/her to school.

To prevent the spread of the infection from one person to another, hands must be washed frequently. Further precautions that can help include trashing away used tissues, and not sharing eating or drinking utensils/glasses.

Around the 6th to 11th day after the above symptoms develop, a bright red rash begins on the face. Its appearance on the cheeks is reminiscent of a slapped face.

The rash can spread to the arms, bottom, legs, and trunk. Blotches may appear. The core of the rash may clear up. The rash appears to have a lace or net like texture. In some children, especially older ones and in adults, itching may occur. In most other children, there is no fever or itching. Further, stress, heat, exercise, and sunlight make the rash become worse.

Swollen glands, red eyes, diarrhea, sore throat or a blister-like rash or a bruise may make their appearance in some persons. Some of them may also have swelling or pain in the joints of ankles, wrists, hands, or knees.

Existing diseases such as leukemia (blood cancer), other disorders of the blood, and immune deficiency in children may cause ill health due to Erythema Infectiosum. Such ill health may present itself in the form of anemia, paleness of skin, a fast pulse rate, and breathing problems.

There is no point treating your body with antibiotics as 5ths is viral in nature. The illness is mostly mild and so no treatment is usually necessary for it The rash goes away gradually. It may take any duration ranging between 1 to 3 weeks to clear up. Patients, who are sensitive about their skin, can consult their doctor about the use of lotions or creams to alleviate the rash. Aspirin should never be administered to children afflicted with the disease as it can cause serious problems.

A doctor's consultation becomes necessary when 5th disease occurs during pregnancy, blood cancer, fever, or a weak immune system.