Parent Information Letter: Fifth Disease
Our school medical advisor reports
that this rash affects children primarily, and has an incubation period of 4-14
days. The disease is characterized by an
extremely red, slightly raised eruption on the cheeks (appearing like a slapped
face). Sometimes it is preceded by a
low-grade fever, headache, and occasionally joint pain. This is followed by a lacy or mottled pattern
type rash on arms and legs, and frequently a measles/like rash appears on the
body. The rash is most noticeable when
the child becomes overheated or takes a warm bath. It may last from several days to several
weeks. The child is no longer contagious
after the rash appears.
We are further advised that there
are not any additional symptoms or complications and no treatment is usually
provided. EXCLUSION FROM SCHOOL IS NOT
NECESSARY, although we would appreciate notification of the incidence of this
disease.
Pregnant
women should avoid contact with individuals having Fifth Disease, but should
contact occur, they should notify their physician for advice. If you have further questions, please contact
your physician, or you can call the school nurses at 228-9913.
Fayne Sears RN, MA
Peggy Stickel RN, MS