Slap cheek
Slapped cheek syndrome is a type of viral infection, usually affecting children between the ages of 3 and 15, although it can affect anyone of any age. Most cases develop during the late winter months or early spring.
Slapped cheek syndrome is caused by a virus called parvovirus B19. Parvovirus B19 is an airborne virus which is spread in much the same way as the cold or flu viruses. It can be spread through coughs and sneezes that release tiny droplets of contaminated saliva which are then breathed in by another person.
Once you've been infected you should develop a lifelong immunity and not experience any further symptoms.
The most common symptom of slapped cheek syndrome is the appearance of a distinctive bright red rash on the cheeks. This is how the condition got its name.
The symptoms of slapped cheek syndrome usually begin in the first couple of weeks after your child is exposed to the parvovirus B19 virus. The symptoms tend to follow three distinct stages.
The first stage is usually characterised by mild flu-like symptoms, such as:
a high temperature
sore throat
upset stomach
feeling tired
itchy skin
In many cases these symptoms do not occur, or are so mild as to be barely noticeable.
During the first stage of symptoms, your child will be most contagious.
The second stage is three to seven days after the symptoms start, your child will develop a bright red rash on both cheeks (the so-called "slapped cheeks"). The rash may be particularly noticeable in bright sunlight.
The third stage of symptoms usually begins one to four days after the appearance of the "slapped cheek" rash.
During this stage, the rash will usually spread to your child’s chest, stomach, arms and thighs. The rash usually has a raised, lace-like appearance and may cause discomfort and itching.
The rash is usually more noticeable after exercise, or if your child is hot, anxious or stressed.
By this time, your child should no longer be contagious. The rash should then pass after a few days. In rare cases it can last up to four or five weeks.
Treatment
Most children will not need treatment as slapped cheek syndrome is usually a very mild condition that passes in a few days. Occasionally it can last up to four or five weeks.
Symptoms such as headaches, high temperature or itchy skin can usually be treated with over-the-counter medications such as paracetamol and antihistamines.
Because children of this age play very closely together with frequent physical contact, our policy at Groombridge Pre-school is that children who are showing signs of illness should stay at home.
This policy is known, agreed and implemented by all staff.
This policy is known and made available to all parents.