What is erythema infectiosum?
Erythema infectiosum is caused by a virus (Parvovirus B19) and mainly affects children between 5 and 7 years of age.
What are the symptoms?
Initially, a low-grade fever and a slight malaise appear. A few days later, a hardened rash appears on the face (similar to a "slapped face") and symmetrical, most visible on the arms, legs, and torso. Generally, this rash does not affect the palms of the hands or the soles of the feet.
The rash takes on a lacy appearance with a clear central area, usually more evident in exposed areas. The rash and illness usually last up to 10 days.
How is it transmitted?
Erythema infectiosum is transmitted through the air and mainly affects children between 5 and 7 years of age.
How can I prevent it?
Measures to avoid contagion include frequent hand washing, especially before eating and after having touched contaminated objects (dirty tissues, glasses and cutlery), as well as proper hygiene.
Contact with people with this disease should be avoided, as erythema infectiosum is transmitted by droplets eliminated by coughing or sneezing, by dirty tissues, glasses and cutlery.
What is the incubation period?
The incubation period is 4 to 14 days.
Source: Directorate-General for Health (DGS)