Quick answer
What is slapped cheek syndrome?
Slapped cheek syndrome is a common mild viral illness in children, caused by parvovirus B19. It often starts with cold-like symptoms, then a bright red rash on both cheeks that looks like a slap mark. Most children recover within 1 to 3 weeks without treatment, but the rash can come and go for several weeks.
What is slapped cheek syndrome?
Slapped cheek syndrome — also called fifth disease — is a common viral illness caused by parvovirus B19. It mainly affects school-age children and is usually mild. The name comes from the bright red rash that often appears on both cheeks.
Symptoms
Slapped cheek syndrome often develops in stages:
- Early symptoms — mild cold-like signs such as a runny nose, sore throat, headache or raised temperature. At this stage the illness is most infectious, but the cause may not yet be obvious.
- Cheek rash — a bright red rash on both cheeks, looking like slap marks. This is often when parents first notice something specific.
- Body rash — a pink, lace-like or net-like rash on the chest, arms, legs or trunk. This can come and go for several weeks, sometimes triggered by exercise, warmth or sunlight.
Some children have only mild symptoms and barely seem unwell.
How it spreads
The virus spreads through coughs and sneezes, similar to a cold. Because it is most contagious before the characteristic rash appears, outbreaks in schools can be hard to prevent. Good hand hygiene helps.
Treatment at home
Most children need no specific treatment:
- rest and plenty of fluids
- paracetamol or ibuprofen if they have a temperature or aches (follow age-appropriate dosing)
- no need for antibiotics
The rash can look dramatic but is usually not itchy or painful. It may reappear — this is normal and does not mean the illness is getting worse.
Special situations
Pregnant women: If you are pregnant and have been in close contact with someone who has slapped cheek syndrome, contact your midwife or GP. Most pregnancies are unaffected, but infection can rarely cause problems for the baby.
Sickle cell disease and weakened immunity: People with these conditions should seek medical advice if exposed or unwell, as the virus can affect red blood cells.
When to see a GP
See a GP if your child is unusually unwell, not improving, or develops painful or swollen joints. Adults with persistent joint pain after the illness should also seek advice.
Common questions
- Why is it called slapped cheek syndrome?
- The illness often causes a bright red rash on both cheeks that looks as though the child has been slapped. Doctors also call it fifth disease or parvovirus B19 infection.
- Is slapped cheek syndrome contagious?
- Yes, but it is most infectious in the week or so before the cheek rash appears — when symptoms may seem like a mild cold. By the time the rash is obvious, the child is usually less infectious.
- How long does the rash last?
- The cheek rash often fades within a few days, but a body rash can appear and the whole rash may come and go for up to three weeks — especially after exercise, heat or sunlight.
- Does slapped cheek syndrome need antibiotics?
- No. It is caused by a virus, so antibiotics do not help. Rest, fluids and paracetamol for discomfort are usually all that is needed.
- Can adults get slapped cheek syndrome?
- Yes. Adults may have mild cold-like symptoms, joint pain, or a rash. Joint symptoms can last several weeks in adults even after the rash clears.