"HEALTHY TIPS"

THOMPSON PUBLIC SCHOOLS

HEALTH SERVICE DEPARTMENT

DEAR FAMILIES,

We would like to share some information with you concerning the health of our children. The intent of this note is strictly to provide you with information.

We are in the midst of some children experiencing a virus known as ≥fifthπs disease≤. This virus is essentially non- threatening to children. A child with this virus may have a bright red or ≥rosey rash≤ on both cheeks for 1-3 days, followed by a pink ≥lacelike≤ rash mainly on the thighs and arms which may come and go for a period of 1-4 weeks. The child may or may not have a low grade fever(less than 101). This is a very mild viral disease with usually a slight runny nose and a sore throat. No treatment is necessary. The distinctive rash is harmless. The virus is contagious during the week before the rash begins. The child may present with a little tiredness, runny nose, and possibly a lack of appetite. ONCE THE CHILD HAS THE RASH HE/SHE IS NO LONGER CONTAGIOUS AND DOES NOT NEED TO STAY HOME FROM SCHOOL.

Adults usually have been infected with the virus without being aware. Many adults who contact fifthπs disease develop a mild pinkness of the cheeks or no rash at all. Adults may experience joint pain/discomfort. If a pregnant woman has been exposed to a child with the virus before the child developed a rash it is important to notify the obstetrician. The virus does not cause birth defects, however some fetuses that are infected may develop anemia.

Fifth disease is more prevalent in the spring or fall yet as other viruses it may present throughout the year. Please bear in mind this is essentially a non- threatening virus to children, yet if your child has the virus and has been in the presence of any pregnant friend or relative advise the pregnant woman to notify

her doctor.

If you have any questions or concerns please call the nursesπ office or your doctor/pediatrician.

BARBARA LESNIEWSKI R.N.

HEALTH SERVICES

860-923-3574