Are You Suprised ? s18

Fifth’s Disease (Erythema Infectiosum)

(SCHOOL HEADING) (SCHOOL TELEPHONE NUMBER)

Dear Parent or Guardian:

This is to inform you that your child has been exposed to Fifth’s Disease.

The signs and symptoms, mode of transmission and incubation period are as follows:

Signs and Symptoms: A contagious rash like illness among children with the appearance of a “slapped cheek”. The reddening of the skin fades and reoccurs as a rash. Sunlight, heat and nerves exaggerate the rash. It begins on the cheeks and spreads to upper arms and legs, trunk, hands and feet. A low-grade fever, headache and gastrointestinal symptoms (stomach discomfort, nausea and or vomiting) may accompany the rash. The progression of the disease usually takes 5 to 7 days, but occasionally the rash may reoccur over several weeks.

Mode of Transmission: Fifth’s disease is thought to be transmitted primarily through contact with infected respiratory secretions. .

Incubation Period: 4 to 20 days

Pregnant women with sick children at home should be advised to wash hands frequently and avoid sharing eating utensils. Women who are pregnant or might become pregnant should consult with their healthcare provider.

Should your child present any of these symptoms, we recommend that you consult your family health care provider. Any student presenting these signs and symptoms will be excluded from school. Report to Health Education Services, 754-321-2272. Although no strict criteria for exclusion from school can be established, it is recommended that students stay at home during the period when fever and tiredness are present and until the initial rash has faded.

If you have any questions, please feel free to call us.

Sincerely,

Principal