Fifth Disease: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment
Medically reviewed by Harsha Moole, MD, Internal Medicine. Last reviewed: October 23, 2026.
What kind of doctor treats Fifth Disease?
A pediatrician, a doctor who treats children, or a primary care doctor usually treats fifth disease. If you are pregnant, an obstetrician, a doctor who cares for pregnant women, may be involved. People with blood disorders may also need a hematologist, a blood doctor. A direct primary care or concierge doctor can be a first stop for an evaluation and can refer you to a specialist when needed.
What is fifth disease?
Fifth disease, also called erythema infectiosum, is a viral infection caused by parvovirus B19. This virus only infects people. It is not the same type of parvovirus that dogs and cats can get. Fifth disease mostly affects children. It often causes a bright red rash on their cheeks, sometimes called a "slapped cheek" rash. The infection is usually mild in people who are otherwise healthy.
Symptoms
Some people who get infected have no symptoms. When symptoms happen, they are usually mild and may include:
- Fever.
- Headache.
- Cough and sore throat.
- Runny nose.
- Rashes.
- Joint pain and muscle aches.
The "slapped cheek" rash is more common in children. It usually shows up a few days after the first symptoms. The rash can then spread to the arms, legs, chest, back, and buttocks. It may be itchy. It usually goes away in 7 to 10 days but can come and go for several weeks. As it fades, it may look lacy. Adults may have joint pain and swelling. The joint pain is most often in the hands, feet, and knees. It usually lasts 1 to 3 weeks but can last for months or longer.
Causes and who gets it
Parvovirus B19 spreads through respiratory droplets, such as saliva, sputum, or nasal mucus. The droplets can spread when someone with the virus coughs or sneezes, or when you touch an item that has the virus on it. It can also spread through blood or blood products, and from a pregnant parent to the baby. You are most contagious early in your infection, when you usually only have a fever or cold-like symptoms. You are not likely to be contagious after the rash and joint pain start. Most people become immune to the virus after having it once. Some people have a higher risk of serious problems, including people who are pregnant, who have a blood disorder, or who have a weakened immune system. The risk of problems is also higher with leukemia or other cancers, an organ transplant, or HIV infection.
How doctors diagnose it
There is no routine lab test to diagnose fifth disease. Providers can often diagnose it just by seeing the "slapped cheek" rash and rashes on the body. A blood test can show whether you are protected from the virus or had a recent infection. This test is usually not needed, but your provider may order it if you are pregnant or at higher risk for complications.
Treatment
There is no specific treatment for fifth disease. It is usually mild and goes away on its own. To feel better, get plenty of rest. Acetaminophen can help with fever and pain. Do not give aspirin to children, because it may cause Reye syndrome, a rare, serious illness that can affect the brain and liver. Treatment focuses on relieving symptoms such as fever, itching, joint pain, and swelling. For people who develop a low blood count, treatment may include supportive care, blood products, and other specialized therapies.
When to see a doctor
Seek care if you are exposed to someone with parvovirus B19, or have signs of it, and you are pregnant, have a weakened immune system, or have an ongoing blood disorder such as sickle cell disease or thalassemia. If you are pregnant, contact your health care provider if you show signs of fifth disease or may have been exposed to someone who has it. Serious problems can affect the nerves, joints, or blood system. If you have a blood disorder or weakened immune system, infection can cause a severe drop in blood count. Call 911 or go to the emergency room for severe weakness, fainting, or severe trouble breathing.
How a direct primary care or concierge doctor fits in
A direct primary care doctor charges a flat monthly fee instead of billing insurance, while a concierge doctor usually charges more and often works alongside insurance. Either kind of doctor can look at a rash, check for signs of problems, and order a blood test when needed. They can also refer you to a specialist if you are pregnant or have a blood disorder.
Common questions
Is fifth disease contagious after the rash appears?
Not likely, because you are most contagious early, before the rash shows. Early on, you usually only have a fever or cold-like symptoms.
Can adults get fifth disease?
Yes, adults can get fifth disease, though it mostly affects children. Adults may have joint pain and swelling.
Is fifth disease dangerous in pregnancy?
It can be, but serious problems are not common. The virus can spread to the baby and could cause a miscarriage and blood, heart, or liver problems in the unborn baby. Contact your health care provider if you are pregnant and show signs of fifth disease or may have been exposed.
Can fifth disease be prevented?
There is no vaccine to prevent fifth disease, but you can lower your chance of getting it. Wash your hands often with soap and water. Cover your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze. Avoid close contact with people who are sick. Stay home when you are sick.
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Medical Disclaimer
This content is for general educational and informational purposes only and is not medical advice. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and reading it does not create a doctor-patient relationship. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified health provider with any questions about a medical condition, and never disregard or delay seeking professional advice because of something you read here. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call 911 (or your local emergency number) immediately.
