Erythema infectiosum

Name(s): 
Fifth disease
Slapped-cheek disease, Academy rash, Sticker's disease, Sticker disease, Childhood exanthem, Parvovirus B19
PV-B19 infection
Nature 
Erythema infectiosum is a common childhood skin disorder caused by infection with PV-B19, a member of the Parvoviridae family.
Incidence 
Parvovirus B19 infection is common and occurs world wide. The disease occurs usually for children aged 3-15 years, but it can occur at any age. Adults may suffer flu-like symptoms without the classic skin eruption. Worldwide, epidemics of erythema infectiosum tend to occur in the late winter or early spring, with cyclical peaks of incidence occurring every 4-7 years. Recent epidemic years have been 1989-1990, 1993-1994 and 1997-1998. Infection is most common in children aged 6-10 years, but can occur at any age. The virus is transmitted effectively after close contact, and possibly also by respiratory secretions. The incubation period is 13-18 days, but can be as long as 20 days. Once the rash is present, the subject is no longer infectious. Approximately 60% of adults are seropositive for PV-B19 by age 20 years. Infection rates vary from 20-50% in schools and households during outbreaks.
Aggravated by 
Type 
(G) Very specific problems