From the Research
Fifth disease in adults is a viral infection caused by parvovirus B19 that typically presents with a distinctive rash and sometimes joint pain, and most adults require only symptomatic treatment, including rest, adequate hydration, and over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen for fever and joint pain. The illness is usually mild and self-limiting, resolving within 1-3 weeks 1. Adults often experience more joint symptoms than children, which can persist for weeks to months in some cases. The virus spreads through respiratory secretions, so infected individuals should practice good hand hygiene and avoid close contact with pregnant women and immunocompromised people.
Key Considerations
- Pregnant women exposed to fifth disease should consult their healthcare provider as the virus can rarely cause complications for the fetus 1.
- Most adults have immunity from childhood exposure, but those with weakened immune systems or certain blood disorders may develop more serious complications and should seek medical attention if infected.
- The characteristic rash appears after the person is no longer contagious, meaning many people unknowingly spread the virus before knowing they're infected.
Treatment Options
- Symptomatic treatment with rest, adequate hydration, and over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen (500-1000mg every 6 hours as needed) or ibuprofen (400-600mg every 6-8 hours with food) for fever and joint pain 1.
- Conservative management, including physical treatment and physiotherapy, may be considered as an adjunctive therapy option for adults with erythema infectiosum, especially those with persistent joint symptoms 2.