Fifth disease causes a rash on the cheeks and a more widespread rash that typically involves the trunk and arms. This image displays widespread flat and raised skin lesions that are red or pink in color typical of viral skin rashes. Viral exanthem is the term for the red bumps and flat lesions seen in many viral infections. This image displays broad pink areas as well as numerous scattered pink bumps, one of many different appearances typical of viral exanthems. This image displays viral exanthem affecting the face. This image displays a widespread and severe case of viral exanthem. In people with darker skin, inflammation from viral exanthem can appear as a deep red color. In people with very dark skin, the inflammation and redness of viral exanthem is more subtle, but the rash is easily seen and felt by the touch. Viral exanthems can have intense red, inflamed skin lesions.
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Viral Exanthem  A parent's guide for infants and babies

Picture of Viral Exanthem: Fifth disease causes a rash on the cheeks and a more widespread rash that typically involves the trunk and arms. Divider line
Fifth disease causes a rash on the cheeks and a more widespread rash that typically involves the trunk and arms.
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Self-Care Guidelines
For people with only mild symptoms, no treatment is required, as the rash and illness often last for only a few days and go away on their own. However, you might try:
  • Acetaminophen (Tylenol®) or ibuprofen for low fever and aches and pains. (DO NOT USE aspirin.)
  • Bed rest and plenty of liquids.
When to Seek Medical Care
See your child's doctor if your child has a rash and any of the following:
  • Fever with a temperature over 101 degrees that lasts more than a day
  • Severe headache, stiff neck, confusion, unconsciousness, or seizures
  • Diarrhea and/or vomiting, severe abdominal pain
  • Severe cough or sputum with pus or blood
  • Spots, swelling, and redness on the palms or soles, blisters, swollen and painful joints
  • Red eyes, mouth, or tongue
  • Rash that is bright red and does not fade (blanch) with finger pressure
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Last Modified: 22 Dec 2008
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