An Outbreak Of The ‘5th Disease’ Is Sending Kids Home From School

Be on the look out for a disease that is common in kids called 5th disease or also called "slapped cheek."

Fifth disease got its name because it was the fifth on a list of the six recognized childhood rash-forming illnesses. The reason they also call it 'slapped cheek' is because there will be a distinctive bright red spot on the cheeks that look as though the child has been slapped. This red splotch resembles a rash.

Outbreaks tend to happen in the late winter and early spring. Reports of kids getting 5th disease are popping up right now around Amarillo's schools. Fifth disease is usually mild and is spread by respiratory droplets that enter the air when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or can be transmitted through blood.

If a child goes to school with symptoms of the 5th disease the school nurse will call for the parents to pick them up right away because it is contagious. Fifth disease begins with a slight fever, headache, and mild cold-like symptoms (a stuffy or runny nose). These symptoms pass and the illness seems to be gone until a rash appears a few days later. 5th disease will run its course in usually 4 to 14 days, but can last as long as 21 days.

The bright red rash usually begins on the face and extend down the arms, legs, and trunk. Other symptoms with 5th disease include swollen glands, red eyes, sore throat and diarrhea. Fifth disease usually goes away on its own. Antibiotics don't help with fifth disease due to it being caused by a virus, not a bacteria.

If your child gets the 5th disease call your doctor and ask about home treatments that can help with symptoms until your child feels better.