How to prepare for a video visit about Fifth Disease (Parvovirus B19) - Triage

Audience: pediatric

Fifth Disease is a common viral infection caused by Parvovirus B19, often affecting children. It usually starts with mild symptoms like fever, headache, or runny nose, followed by a distinctive red rash on the face that looks like a "slapped cheek." This rash may spread to the body and limbs. Most children recover without complications. A video visit with a healthcare provider can help assess symptoms, provide advice, and guide care. Preparing for the visit by noting symptoms, recent exposures, and any health concerns will make the appointment more effective. If your child has severe symptoms or underlying health issues, in-person care might be needed. This guide helps families understand what to expect and how to get ready for a telemedicine visit about Fifth Disease.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Difficulty breathing or rapid breathing — seek emergency care immediately.
• High fever lasting more than 3 days or not responding to fever reducers — contact healthcare provider promptly.
• Severe joint pain, swelling, or inability to move a joint — arrange urgent medical evaluation.

What telemedicine can do

• Initial assessment of mild symptoms and rash appearance.
• Providing advice on symptom management and home care.
• Answering questions about disease transmission and prevention.
• Determining if in-person evaluation is needed.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Emergency situations like breathing difficulties or severe allergic reactions.
• Performing physical exams that require hands-on assessment.
• Administering laboratory tests or treatments that require in-person visits.
• Managing complications in children with complex health conditions without in-person support.

What is Fifth Disease?

Fifth Disease is caused by a virus called Parvovirus B19. It mainly affects children and spreads through respiratory droplets, like coughs or sneezes. The illness often begins with mild cold-like symptoms, then a red rash appears on the cheeks, giving a "slapped cheek" look. The rash may spread to the arms, legs, and trunk. Most children feel better within a week or two without needing special treatment.

Symptoms to Watch For

Common symptoms include:

Symptoms typically improve on their own. However, some children with weakened immune systems or certain blood disorders may have more serious problems.

Preparing for Your Video Visit

Before your video visit, gather important information:

Make sure your device is charged and you have a quiet, well-lit space for the visit.

What to Expect During the Video Visit

The healthcare provider will ask about your child's symptoms, medical history, and recent exposures. They may ask to see the rash or other signs via the camera. Based on the information, they will advise on care steps, symptom relief, and when to seek in-person care. They may also discuss how to prevent spreading the virus to others.

When to Seek In-Person Care

If your child has any of the following, seek urgent in-person medical care:

Children with weakened immune systems or blood disorders should be evaluated promptly.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Write down when symptoms began and how they have changed.
• Take photos of any rash or skin changes to show during the visit.
• List any other health conditions your child has.
• Prepare a list of current medications and allergies.
• Find a quiet, well-lit space with good internet connection for the video visit.
• Charge your device and test the video and audio functions before the appointment.
• Have a list of questions or concerns ready to discuss with the provider.

After your tele-visit

• Follow the healthcare provider's advice on symptom relief and care.
• Monitor your child's symptoms and watch for any red flags.
• Keep your child hydrated and rested.
• Avoid close contact with others to prevent spreading the virus.
• Schedule follow-up visits if symptoms worsen or do not improve as expected.
• Seek in-person care if emergency symptoms develop.

FAQs

Is Fifth Disease contagious?

Yes, Fifth Disease spreads through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes. It is most contagious before the rash appears, so children may spread the virus before they look sick.

Can my child go to school with Fifth Disease?

Usually, children with Fifth Disease can return to school once they feel well enough. The rash itself is not contagious, but it's best to follow your healthcare provider's advice.

How is Fifth Disease treated?

There is no specific treatment for Fifth Disease. Care focuses on relieving symptoms like fever and joint pain with rest, fluids, and over-the-counter medicines as recommended by a healthcare provider.

Is Fifth Disease dangerous for pregnant women?

Fifth Disease can be serious during pregnancy because it may affect the unborn baby. Pregnant women who have been exposed should contact their healthcare provider for advice.

When should I call the doctor during a telemedicine visit?

Call your healthcare provider if your child develops difficulty breathing, high fever that does not improve, severe joint pain, signs of dehydration, or unusual bleeding or bruising.

Sources

1. Fifth Disease — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
2. Fifth Disease (Parvovirus B19 Infection) — MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine.
3. Parvovirus B19 Infection — Mayo Clinic.
4. Parvovirus B19 — National Library of Medicine, U.S. National Institutes of Health.

This telemedicine guidance is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for in-person medical care. If your child has severe symptoms or emergency signs, seek immediate medical attention.