Once the rash develops, the child is no longer contagious. Most children with fifth disease do not need medication. There is no need to change a child's diet or to limit activity. There are no complications in a normal child. If you are worried about your child's illness, or if your child develops a fever over 102 F or has severe joint pains, call your doctor.
Children are contagious before they have a rash or joint pains.
Since they feel well or have only a mild illness, they continue to play with other children. Little can be done to stop the spread of this infection. Once the rash develops, they are no longer infectious and can return to day care or school. Sometimes the rash returns, but the child will not be infectious again. Pregnant women should tell their doctor if they have been in contact with infected children one week before the rash appeared.