Slapped Cheek (Fifth Disease)

Also known as fifth disease is a viral illness caused by parvovirus B19. This illness is primarily seen in children and is characterized by a distinctive bright red rash on the cheeks, giving a slapped cheek appearance. Additional symptoms associated with this virus are fever, cold like symptoms, and a lacy rash to extremities and trunk. The rash can come and go and it typically takes about 1-3 weeks for the rash to clear. There is no specific treatment for this viral rash rather symptom management. 

Fifth disease is spread through respiratory droplets such as coughing and sneezing and is most contagious in the early stages before the rash appears. Once the rash has developed the child is typically no longer contagious.