Fifth Disease (erythema infectiosum)
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The childhood disease is a mild one and is caused by a virus so no antibiotic would be effective against it. It has no lasting effects and is characterized by red specks on the nose, cheeks, arms buttocks and thighs that are often blurred making it look as if the child has been slapped. Also called the “slapped cheek” syndrome, it can last for 14 days but is rarely accompanied by fever in children between age 4 and 12. The disease is an untreatable one and it usually goes away by itself. The infection manifests itself about two weeks after exposure and when the rashes appear, it is usually not infectious anymore. Pregnant women should avoid exposure to the disease for it is infectious and can lead to miscarriages. If you suspect contact with a child that is infected by the disease, contact a doctor immediately for close monitoring of you and the unborn fetuses health.