What to Know about 5th Disease in Adults: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment

If you’re an adult, the term “5th disease” may sound unfamiliar to you. However, it is a common and highly contagious viral illness, especially among children. However, adults can also get infected. This article aims to provide a comprehensive guide on 5th disease in adults, including symptoms, causes, and treatments.

What is 5th Disease?

Also known as erythema infectiosum, slapped cheek disease, and fifth disease, it is a viral infection caused by the parvovirus B19. The virus is highly contagious and usually spreads through respiratory droplets from coughing and sneezing, making it easily transferable from person to person.

Symptoms of 5th Disease in Adults

Symptoms of 5th disease typically appear between 4-14 days after exposure to the virus. The symptoms of 5th disease in adults are:

• A distinctive red rash on the cheeks, followed by a lacy rash on the arms, legs, and trunk
• Fever, headache, and sore throat
• Fatigue and body aches
• Joint pain and swelling in adults, primarily affecting the knees, hands, and wrists
• Gastrointestinal symptoms are also reported in some cases

Causes of 5th Disease in Adults

5th disease is caused by a virus called parvovirus B19. Adults can contract the disease in several ways:

• Direct contact with an infected person, especially through respiratory droplets from coughing and sneezing.
• Exposure to contaminated surfaces or objects, which can harbor the virus for several hours.
• Transmission through blood transfusions or organ transplantations in rare cases.
• Transmission from mother to unborn baby during pregnancy, which can lead to severe complications.

Treatment for 5th Disease in Adults

There is no specific treatment for 5th disease in adults. Most adults recover from the illness without any complications, and the symptoms typically go away on their own in 1-3 weeks.

However, people with sickle cell anemia, compromised immune systems, or pregnant women should seek medical attention if they experience symptoms of 5th disease. Pregnant women should seek medical attention as soon as possible if they have been exposed to the virus.

Prevention of 5th Disease in Adults

Prevention of 5th disease in adults involves taking the following precautions:

• Avoiding close contact with an infected person, especially when they are coughing or sneezing.
• Frequent hand washing with soap and water for at least 20 seconds before eating, after using the bathroom, and after being in contact with an infected person.
• Cleaning and disinfecting frequently touched surfaces and objects regularly.
• Avoiding close contact with others if you know you’re infected with the virus.
• Practicing proper respiratory hygiene by covering the mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing.

Conclusion

5th disease in adults is a rare viral illness that can cause a rash, fever, joint pain, and other flu-like symptoms. While most cases of 5th disease in adults are mild and resolve on their own, pregnant women, people with sickle cell anemia, and those with compromised immune systems should seek medical attention if they experience symptoms. Taking preventive measures such as hand washing, avoiding close contact with infected individuals and practicing proper respiratory hygiene can significantly reduce the risk of contracting the virus.