Slapped cheek syndrome
Overview
Slapped cheek syndrome (also called fifth disease) is common in children and should get better on its own within 3 weeks. It's rarer in adults, but can be more serious.
Symptoms
The first sign of slapped cheek syndrome is usually feeling unwell for a few days. Symptoms may include: a high temperaturea runny nose and sore throata headache
Causes
Viral infection (Parvovirus B19). Spread by coughs/sneezes.
Treatment
You do not usually need to see a GP for slapped cheek syndrome. There are some things you can do to ease the symptoms. rest rest drink plenty of fluids to avoiddehydration– babies should continue their normal feeds drink plenty of fluids to avoiddehydration– babies should continue their normal feeds takeparacetamoloribuprofenif uncomfortable takeparacetamoloribuprofenif uncomfortable do not give aspirin to children under 16 do not give aspirin to children under 16
Prevention
Wash hands; Cover mouth when coughing. Hard to prevent (contagious before rash).
When to see a doctor
See GP if: you are pregnant; have weak immune system; or blood disorder.