Fifth disease is a mild rash illness caused by parvovirus B19. It is more common in children than adults. A person usually gets sick with fifth disease within 14 days after getting infected with parvovirus B19. This disease, also called erythema infectiosum, got its name because it was fifth in a list of historical classifications of common skin rash illnesses in children.
Is this a reportable illness?
This is not a reportable illness to CDPH but consult with your school nurse to learn more.
What do schools need to do next?
Sick Person
No exclusion of student unless febrile or other symptoms meeting illness exclusion criteria are present.
Once the rash is present, they are probably not contagious. So, it is usually safe to go back to return to work, school or a child care center.
Any pregnant woman who may have been exposed to parvovirus B19 should contact their obstetrician or healthcare provider as soon as possible.
