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Warning-sign checks

Fifth disease: when to get help

Go through these in order and stop at the first one that applies. If you are reading this for someone else, answer for them.

  1. 1

    Is any of this happening now?

    Call 911

    Seek emergency care for fainting, severe breathing difficulty, confusion, blue or grey lips, extreme weakness, or symptoms that worsen quickly.

    Other emergency signs, for anyone
    • Someone who is struggling to breathe, gasping, choking, or cannot get words out
    • Someone who has chest pain, tightness or pressure lasting more than a few minutes
    • Someone who has sudden weakness or drooping on one side of the face or body, slurred speech, or sudden confusion
    • Someone who is unconscious, or cannot be woken
    • Someone who is bleeding heavily and it will not stop with firm pressure
    • Someone who has had a seizure that will not stop, or does not wake up afterwards
    • Someone who has lips or skin that look pale, blue, grey or blotchy
    • Someone who you believe has taken an overdose or swallowed something poisonous
  2. 2

    Is any of this happening?

    Be seen today

    Arrange prompt medical advice if you have symptoms or a known exposure and you:

    • Are pregnant
    • Have sickle cell disease, thalassemia, or another red blood cell disorder
    • Have a weakened immune system
    • Develop marked paleness, increasing tiredness, dizziness, or shortness of breath
    • Have joint pain or swelling that is severe, worsening, or persistent

    If you are pregnant, contact your maternity team promptly after close exposure even if you feel well.

    Blood tests can check whether you are immune or may have a recent infection.

    Follow urgent maternity guidance for reduced fetal movement, bleeding, severe abdominal pain, or other concerning pregnancy symptoms.

    These may indicate severe anemia or another urgent condition.

  3. 3

    Does any of this apply?

    Book an appointment

    Arrange routine review if the rash is difficult to identify, the fever persists, or the child is not recovering as expected.

The article also says

A mild rash in an otherwise well child is not usually an emergency.

Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Fifth disease. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.