Slapped cheek syndrome advice video

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Dr Rob Hicks explains the symptoms of slapped cheek syndrome and offers his advice on how to treat the virus.

Rob says: 'Slapped cheek syndrome is a viral infection. Its caused by the virus called parvovirus b-19.'

How is slapped cheek syndrome spread?

'Slapped cheek syndrome is spread in the air when we cough, laugh and sneeze, or by salivia and  in-the-air droplets when we are in close contact. That's why when children get it (and its mostly children that get it between the ages four and twelve) it can spread very rapidly throughout a classroom or school.'

Slapped cheek syndrome symptoms

'The symptoms to look for with slapped cheek syndrome are generally those you get with a common cold; so sneezing, runny nose, sore throat, bit of a headache and maybe a bit of a fever.

'The characteristic of this infection, however, is the rash. This is the slapped cheek appearance, the blotchy red rash that may go on one cheek or both cheeks and generally will remain there but it could spread to the rest of the body. It may go to the front, the back, the arms, the legs, the palms of the hands and the soles of the feet.

'Generally it's not painful but it might be a little bit irritating for some people. Unlike the worrying rash of meningitis if you press this rash of slapped cheek, it will fade.

'Often a child who gets the infection barely gets any symptoms at all, so treat it as any type of viral infection: plenty of rest, plenty of fluids and for sore throat/high temperature, children's paracetamol is perfectly reasonable. If you're not sure check with your pharmacist or doctor.

'The people who need to be concerned are pregnant women, so if you get the infection in pregnancy and you've not had it before, it can - especially in the early part of pregnancy - increase the risk of miscarriage.

'Generally we say slapped cheek syndrome is not an infection to be very worried about - the majority of people who get the virus don't even know they've had it. It clears up without leaving any complications.

'If you're not sure if your child has slapped cheek syndrome or another infection then it's always best to seek medical advice.'

Where to next 

Under the microscope: Slapped cheek syndrome 

Slapped cheek disease in children 

How to treat slapped cheek syndrome