Fifth Disease (Erythema Infectiosum): Symptoms, Causes & Recovery

Erythema infectiosum is also known as fifth disease because it is the fifth of the six common childhood exanthems. These exanthems are characterized by a rash, and they are typically caused by viruses. The other five exanthems are:

1. Measles

2. Rubella

3. Chickenpox

4. Scarlet fever

5. Roseola

Erythema infectiosum is usually a mild disease, and it typically resolves on its own within a few weeks. However, in some cases, it can lead to complications, such as joint pain and swelling, or even meningitis.