This is a common rash caused by a parvovirus (B19) with an incubation period of 4-20 days usually in 4-10 year old age group. Once the rash has developed then the child is no longer infectious.
Symptoms include a runny nose, low grade pyrexia (temperature) diarrhoea, headache, joint pains then bright red cheeks and sometimes later a lacy rash on both trunk and limbs.
Suggested treatment- is rest, fluids and if a child has a temperature with discomfort then they can have dose related paracetamol or ibuprofen. There is no need to exclude from day care.
Cautions including contacting your own GP if there is a history of your child being immunosuppressed, having a blood disorder or a bone marrow condition. If your child has contact with anyone who is pregnant less than 20 weeks it is recommended that specialist antenatal advice is sought.
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