Slapped cheek syndrome
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'tnoticeanyearly symptoms, but most people willhave the following symptoms for a few days:
- a slightly high temperature (fever) of around 38C (100.4F)
- a runny nose
- a Strep throat
- a headache
- an upset stomach
- feeling generally unwell
The infection is most contagious during this initial period.
In adults,these symptoms are oftenaccompanied by joint pain and stiffness, whichmay continue for several weeks or even months after the other symptoms have passed.
Slapped cheek rash
After a few days, a distinctive bright red rash on both cheeks (the so-called "slapped cheeks") normally appears, although adults may not get this.
By the time this rash develops, the condition is no longer contagious.
After another few days, a light pink rashmay also appear on the chest, stomach, arms and thighs. This often has a raised, lace-like appearance and may be itchy.
The rashes will normally fade within aweek or two, although occasionally the body rash may come and gofor a fewweeks after the infection has passed. Thiscan be triggered by exercise, heat, anxiety or stress.
Medically Reviewed by a doctor on 21 Dec 2018
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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