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CFB Health News
Published on Mar 28, 2018 15:48

Millis Public Schools

Clyde Brown School

School Health Services

 

3/28/18

Dear Parents/Guardians:      

There have been several students who have been recently diagnosed with Fifth Disease at Clyde Brown School.   Fifth Disease is a viral infection that occurs most often in elementary school-age children.   It is caused by Parvovirus B19.  The virus lives in the nose and throat and can be spread from person to person by coughing, sneezing and even speaking.

Symptoms usually appear 1 – 2 weeks after exposure.  Individuals are most infections before they show any symptoms.

Common Signs and Symptoms:

  • Low grade fever, headache, body ache, sore throat and chills.
    • These symptoms usually last 2-3 days and are followed by about 1 week of a child feeling much better without any symptoms.
  • Next, the child may develop a bright rash on the cheeks -which gives a “slapped cheek” appearance.
    • The rash may extend to the rest of the body appearing and disappearing in response to environmental changes (e.g., sunlight).
    • Rash may be “itchy”.
    • The rash may appear lacy.
    • The rash begins 17 to 18 days after exposure and may appear on and off for several weeks.
  • Some children have no symptoms at all.

It is not necessary to exclude students from school once the rash has appeared (as long as they are fever-free for 24 hours.)

There is no specific treatment for Fifth Disease.  Healthcare providers may suggest treatment to relieve some symptoms.  There is no vaccine to prevent Fifth Disease.

NOTE: Pregnant women and those with chronic red blood cell disorders (e.g., Sickle Cell disease) should contact their healthcare provider if exposed to Fifth disease).

Please call the school’s Health Office if you have any questions or concerns.

Yours in Health,

Diane Danehy,  BSN, MPH, RN         School Nurse

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