We are independent & ad-supported. We may earn a commission for purchases made through our links.
Advertiser Disclosure
Our website is an independent, advertising-supported platform. We provide our content free of charge to our readers, and to keep it that way, we rely on revenue generated through advertisements and affiliate partnerships. This means that when you click on certain links on our site and make a purchase, we may earn a commission. Learn more.
How We Make Money
We sustain our operations through affiliate commissions and advertising. If you click on an affiliate link and make a purchase, we may receive a commission from the merchant at no additional cost to you. We also display advertisements on our website, which help generate revenue to support our work and keep our content free for readers. Our editorial team operates independently of our advertising and affiliate partnerships to ensure that our content remains unbiased and focused on providing you with the best information and recommendations based on thorough research and honest evaluations. To remain transparent, we’ve provided a list of our current affiliate partners here.
Health

Our Promise to you

Founded in 2002, our company has been a trusted resource for readers seeking informative and engaging content. Our dedication to quality remains unwavering—and will never change. We follow a strict editorial policy, ensuring that our content is authored by highly qualified professionals and edited by subject matter experts. This guarantees that everything we publish is objective, accurate, and trustworthy.

Over the years, we've refined our approach to cover a wide range of topics, providing readers with reliable and practical advice to enhance their knowledge and skills. That's why millions of readers turn to us each year. Join us in celebrating the joy of learning, guided by standards you can trust.

What is Slapped Cheek Syndrome?

Mary McMahon
By
Updated: May 17, 2024
Views: 7,705
Share

Slapped cheek syndrome or erythema infectiosum is a very common viral infection most frequently seen in childhood, although adults can get it too. Many people get this disease and experience no symptoms, acquiring a lifelong immunity after the first exposure. In people who do develop symptoms, there are treatments available to keep the patient comfortable while the virus runs its course. In rare cases, slapped cheek syndrome can be dangerous for a patient and aggressive medical treatment may be needed.

This infection is caused by the human parvovirus B19. It is contagious and usually passes through respiratory secretions, although it can also be transmitted via blood contact. In people who develop symptoms, the condition most commonly manifests with a rash, including a distinctive rash across the cheeks. At first glance, it can look like the patient's cheek has just been slapped, explaining the name.

In addition to the rash, slapped cheek syndrome can also be associated with fever, joint pain, headaches, and sore throat. Adults in particular are prone to joint pain while the infection is active. Providing the patient fluids and rest is usually enough to allow the virus to resolve on its own. If the patient experiences pain, mild analgesia can be helpful, and the rash may be soothed with cold packs and cooling topical creams. Once the patient recovers, it will not be possible to get sick again because the immune system has been sensitized and it will attack the virus in cases of future exposure.

For pregnant women, people with blood disorders, and individuals with compromised immune systems, slapped cheek syndrome can be more serious. The virus can lead to anemia and other medical complications because of the patient's vulnerabilities. These patients may require blood transfusions, immunoglobulin, and other treatments. In some cases, hospitalization may be recommended to provide appropriate supervision and treatment for the patient. People who associate with individuals at increased risk should be careful when they know they are sick to avoid spreading disease to someone who may not be able to fight it easily.

People who suspect that they have slapped cheek syndrome can go to a doctor for evaluation and a firm diagnosis. Evaluation can rule out other conditions associated with rash and joint pain and can be important for patients who are vulnerable to disease to confirm that the appropriate treatment is provided. In the event that a patient has something other than slapped cheek syndrome, other treatment options may be available.

Share
WiseGeek is dedicated to providing accurate and trustworthy information. We carefully select reputable sources and employ a rigorous fact-checking process to maintain the highest standards. To learn more about our commitment to accuracy, read our editorial process.
Mary McMahon
By Mary McMahon

Ever since she began contributing to the site several years ago, Mary has embraced the exciting challenge of being a WiseGeek researcher and writer. Mary has a liberal arts degree from Goddard College and spends her free time reading, cooking, and exploring the great outdoors.

Editors' Picks

Discussion Comments
Mary McMahon
Mary McMahon

Ever since she began contributing to the site several years ago, Mary has embraced the exciting challenge of being a...

Learn more
Share
https://www.wisegeek.net/what-is-slapped-cheek-syndrome.htm
Copy this link
WiseGeek, in your inbox

Our latest articles, guides, and more, delivered daily.

WiseGeek, in your inbox

Our latest articles, guides, and more, delivered daily.