Slapped cheek syndrome or fifth disease (also known as erythema infectiosum) is a common childhood viral infection. However, any age-group is susceptible to this disease. The causative viral infection agent is parvovirus B19. This article gives an insight into the multi stage signs & symptoms of the syndrome and its management & prevention. Parvovirus B19 infection is characterized by the appearance of a bright red rash on both the cheeks.
The rash might look alarming, but the infection does not pose any serious threat and usually diminishes in one to three weeks. In most cases, one-time infection provides lifelong immunity against the same infection. Signs and symptoms The signs and symptoms of slap cheek syndrome appear stage by stage. First stage The infection is most contagious in the first stage or initial period. The symptoms usually appear 4 days to 2 weeks after becoming…
