Under the microscope: Slapped cheek syndrome

Slapped cheek syndrome | Slapped cheek disease - Under the microscope

Each week we look more closely at the most common health conditions.

This week, we're focussing on slapped cheek syndrome...

What is slapped cheek syndrome?

Slapped cheek syndrome, or slapped cheek disease as it's also known, is a virus that usually occurs in children and causes a rash on the face, giving it its name.

What are the symptoms of slapped cheek disease?

Around 1 in 4 cases of slapped cheeky syndrome show no symptoms at all, or they're hard to spot. The main symptoms are:
- Mild fever
- Headache
- Tiredness
- Sore throat
- A red rash may appear on the face which is where the disease gets its name. The rash is usually not painful and when it does appear, your child is no longer contagious.

Where do I get slapped cheek syndrome?

Apart from the rash on the face, it sometimes shows up on arms and legs and even hands or the soles of feet

Who gets slapped cheek?

Slapped cheek syndrome usually only affects children, mainly between the ages of 4-12. It's estimated that 6 in 10 adults will have been infected, although many will not know.

What causes slapped cheek disease?

Slapped cheek syndrome is usually passed in the air through coughing or sneezing, so it can spread very quickly at school, or in nurseries.

The virus is called parvovirus B19 - this is similar to the parvovirus that affects cats and dogs, but it cannot be spread from human to animal or vice versa.

How do I know if I've got slapped cheek syndrome?

You may not ever realise, because symptoms are much like a normal cold virus.

How is slapped cheek treated?

Antibiotics won't work, because it's a viral infection - liquid paracetamol or ibuprofen can be used on children to ease the flu-like symptoms.

How long will slapped cheek syndrome last?

The rash usually disappears within days, although in some cases it can take up to 3 weeks to fade completely. The actual infection will be in your body for between 4-20 days before the rash shows up.

What happens if my child gets slapped cheek when I'm pregnant?

You should see your doctor if you think you have been infected with parvovirus B19 - a blood test can then check for antibodies.

If you're in early pregnancy, you will be monitored by ultrasound because there is a slight increased chance of miscarriage. However, most pregnant women who get infected have healthy babies.

- Read last week's Under the microscope: Gout