Slapped cheek syndrome

What to do if you or your child has slapped cheek

Slapped cheek syndrome is usually mild and should clear up without specific treatment.

If you or your child is feeling unwell, you can try the following to ease the symptoms:

rest anddrink plenty of fluids babies should continue their normal feeds
for a fever, headaches or joint pain, you can take painkillers, such as paracetamol or ibuprofen childrenunder 16 shouldn't take aspirin
to reduce itchiness, you can take antihistamines or use an emollient (moisturising lotion) some antihistamines are not suitable for young children, so check with your pharmacist first

Unless you or your child is feeling unwell, theres no need to stay away from school or work once the rash has developed, as the infection is no longer contagious by this point.

It's a good idea to notify your child's school about the infection, so children who develop early symptoms can be spotted quickly and vulnerable people can be made aware that they may need to get medical advice.

Medically Reviewed by a doctor on 21 Dec 2018

Articles for slapped cheek syndrome

Introduction

Slapped cheek syndrome (also called fifth disease or parvovirus B19) is a viral infection that's most common in children, although it can affect people of any age. It usually causes a bright red rash to develop on the cheeks.

Symptoms of slapped cheek syndrome

Symptoms of slapped cheek syndrome usually develop 4-14 days after becoming infected, but sometimes may not appear for up to 21 days. Initial symptoms Some people with slapped cheek syndrome won'tno

When to get medical advice

You don't usually need to see your GP if you think you or your child has slapped cheek syndrome, as the condition normally gets better on its own. However, you should contact your GP, call NHS 111 or

What to do if you or your child has slapped cheek

Slapped cheek syndrome is usually mild and should clear up without specific treatment. If you or your child is feeling unwell, you can try the following to ease the symptoms: rest anddrink plenty

How do you get slapped cheek syndrome?

Slapped cheek syndrome is caused by a virus called parvovirus B19. This isfound in the droplets in the coughs and sneezes of someone with the infection. Thevirus is spread in a similar wayto colds a

Preventing slapped cheek syndrome

It's very difficult to prevent slapped cheek syndrome, because people who have the infection are most contagious before they develop any obvious symptoms. However, making sure that everyone in your h

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