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What are the complications of fifth disease caused by parvovirus B19?

This Premium Q&A, reviewed and published, features a real conversation between an iCliniq user and a physician.

Patient's Query

Hi doctor,

My kid came home from school with bright red cheeks and a lacy rash. The school nurse said it might be the fifth disease caused by parvovirus B19.

  1. How serious is this? Is it contagious?
  2. My youngest has asthma. Should I be extra worried?
  3. I have never even heard of Parvoviridae before. Are there any complications we should watch out for?
  4. How long will this last?
  5. Also, I am pregnant. Is there any risk to the baby?
  6. Should I keep my kids home from school?

Please help.

Thanks.

Answered by Dr. Sugandh Garg

Education:

MBBS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Sugandh Garg is a qualified medical professional with an MBBS degree and an MD in Forensic Medicine, with significant experience as a COVID-19 expert. Since March 2020, he has been actively working with the government civil hospital COVID team, managing emergency cases and overseeing quarantine and isolation protocols. He has played a key role in supporting COVID-19 patients through structured treatment guidance and diet protocols, contributing to effective patient care during the pandemic.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I have read your query and can understand your concern.

The fifth disease is a mild viral illness caused by the parvovirus B19. It is common in children. It is characterized by a bright red slapped cheek appearance and a lacy, red rash that can spread to other parts of the body. Most children recover quickly and without complications. The fifth disease is not serious.

The symptoms are usually mild, including a low-grade fever, sore throat, and a distinctive rash. The rash may come and go and clear up within one to three weeks. The fifth disease is contagious, but it is most contagious before the rash appears. The virus spreads through respiratory droplets. Since your youngest child has asthma, it is important to monitor them closely. The fifth disease can sometimes cause joint pain. If your child with asthma shows any signs of breathing difficulties or increased wheezing, contact your doctor immediately.

Monitoring for signs of fatigue, pale skin, or shortness of breath is important. These complications are uncommon. The illness usually resolves on its own within one to three weeks. If a pregnant woman becomes infected with parvovirus B19, there is a small risk that the virus could affect the unborn baby. It can lead to anemia in the fetus; you should contact your obstetrician as soon as possible.

Since your child is no longer contagious after the rash appears, they can return to school as long as they feel well. Consult your pediatrician. Please feel free to follow up with any other questions or concerns.

I hope this information will help you.

Thank you.

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Medically reviewed by iCliniq medical review team
Published At September 30, 2024
Reviewed At April 29, 2026

Education:

MBBS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Sugandh Garg is a qualified medical professional with an MBBS degree and an MD in Forensic Medicine, with significant experience as a COVID-19 expert. Since March 2020, he has been actively working with the government civil hospital COVID team, managing emergency cases and overseeing quarantine and isolation protocols. He has played a key role in supporting COVID-19 patients through structured treatment guidance and diet protocols, contributing to effective patient care during the pandemic.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

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Fifth Disease (Parvovirus B19) Awareness Builder

Concerned about Fifth Disease?

Five quick questions help you understand the typical course of Fifth Disease, what symptoms to monitor, and when it's important to contact a doctor.

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Education:

MBBS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Sugandh Garg is a qualified medical professional with an MBBS degree and an MD in Forensic Medicine, with significant experience as a COVID-19 expert. Since March 2020, he has been actively working with the government civil hospital COVID team, managing emergency cases and overseeing quarantine and isolation protocols. He has played a key role in supporting COVID-19 patients through structured treatment guidance and diet protocols, contributing to effective patient care during the pandemic.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

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