What is slapped cheek syndrome, what are the symptoms, what does the rash look like and is it contagious?
The syndrome is often accompanied by a tell-tale bright rash on the face
WITH a rise in the number of scarlet fever cases it’s important to know what other infections can cause similar red rashes.
Slapped cheek syndrome is common in children but rarer in adults, and could be more serious if you're pregnant, or have a blood disorder.
What is slapped cheek syndrome?
Slapped cheek syndrome, also called fifth disease, is a viral infection.
It is usually mild and will often clear up by itself within three weeks.
It is common in children and you usually don’t need to see your GP.
The rash will fade by itself and after contracting slapped cheek syndrome you’re usually immune.
If you have it make sure to drink plenty of fluids and take ibuprofen for a temperature or joint pain.
You can also use moisturiser or emollient on the skin if you develop a rash on the body.
What are the symptoms?
The first signs of slapped cheek syndrome are usually feeling unwell for a few days.
Symptoms also include:
- A high temperature (fever) of around 38C
- An upset stomach
- A runny nose
- A sore throat
- A headache
Adults also usually experience stiffness and joint pain, which may continue for months after the other symptoms have disappeared.
Older people do not always get the tell-tale rash that usually accompanies slapped-cheek syndrome.
What does the rash look like?
After one to two days a bright red rash normally appears on both cheeks.
And after one to three days a light pink rash appears on the body, usually the stomach, arms and thighs, and the skin is often itchy and raised.
The rash usually fades after a few weeks, but the body rash can flare up for around a month, particularly if triggered by exercising or stress.
Is it contagious?
Slapped cheek syndrome is contagious, and you can infect others during the initial stages of the infection.
By the time the rash appears you are no longer contagious.
The virus is spread in similar ways to colds and the flu.
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It is carried in the droplets found in coughs and sneezes, and you catch it either by inhaling the droplets of an infected person or by touching a contaminated surface and then your nose or mouth.
It is difficult to contain or prevent the spread as people are contagious before they develop any symptoms.
There is no vaccine and the best way to prevent against catching it is to always wash your hands frequently and cover your mouth when coughing or sneezing.
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