Slapped cheek syndrome (fifth disease) is common in children and should clear up on its own within 3 weeks. It's rarer in adults, but can be more serious.
Symptoms may include:
-a high temperature of 38C or more
-a runny nose and sore throat
-a headache
How long it lasts:
- The cheek rash normally fades within 2 weeks.
- The body rash also fades within 2 weeks, but sometimes comes and goes for up to a month, especially if you're exercising, hot, anxious or stressed.
- Adults might also have joint pain and stiffness. This can continue for many weeks, even after the other symptoms have gone.
How slapped cheek syndrome is spread?
- It's hard to avoid spreading slapped cheek syndrome because most people do not know they have it until they get the rash.
- You can only spread it to other people before the rash appears.
- Slapped cheek syndrome is caused by a virus (parvovirus B19). The virus spreads to other people, surfaces or objects by coughing or sneezing near them.
To reduce the risk of spreading the virus:
- Wash your hands often with warm water and soap
- Use tissues to trap germs when you cough or sneeze
- Bin used tissues as quickly as possible
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