It is caused by a type of virus called a parvovirus and occurs most often in early spring. These antibodies provide protection from a repeat infection. This viral disease begins with bright, red splotches on the cheeks which have the appearance of a mark made by a slap to the face. This rash will last up to one week and then will fade. Heat from sunlight and warm bath water may make it reappear over the next 2-3 weeks.
Adults have very mild symptoms or no symptoms at all.
Rarely, joint pain or arthritis may last a few days or months. Transmission Fifth s disease is transmitted from person to person usually though infected respiratory secretions such as a cough or sneeze. Transmission may also occur from a mother to her fetus. It is most contagious before the rash develops and the communicability is thought to end when the rash begins. Precautions to take include washing hands well after contact with a person infected with fifth s disease.