Although cold and flu season is almost over, doctors say another similar illness hits many Iowans at this time of year, usually kids. It’s called Fifth Disease — as in the number five. Iowa state epidemiologist Dr. Patty Quinlisk says it’s -not- considered a big risk. She says it’s very common, to the extent almost every Iowa adult will have had it. Symptoms include a slight fever, sore throat and runny nose. There can also be bright red cheeks and a rash on the palms, arms, legs and torso. Quinlisk says it’s often so mild, kids won’t even feel like they need to stay home from school or daycare. She explains the origin of the rather unusual name. People knew about measles and rubella and other rash-causing diseases — this was simply the fifth one that was distinctive from the others. Quinlisk says the symptoms usually fade within a few days or as long as two weeks. While it’s not usually a major risk factor for adults, she says pregnant women who haven’t had the disease before can be more seriously impacted by it. It can also be more severe for people with chronic blood diseases and anyone on chemotherapy
