fifth disease

noun

: an acute virus disease especially of children caused by a parvovirus (species Human parvovirus B19 of the genus Erythrovirus) and manifested by a blotchy red rash on the cheeks which spreads to the extremities and is usually accompanied by fever and malaise

Examples of fifth disease in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web Complications Most cases of fifth disease are mild and resolve with rest and time. Lindsay Curtis, Health, 1 Nov. 2024 Fifth Disease The fifth disease is another viral disease that begins with mild cold symptoms and fever. Parents Editors, Parents, 3 Sep. 2023

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'fifth disease.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

Etymology

from its enumeration as the fifth of five exanthematous childhood diseases known at the time of its description

First Known Use

circa 1941, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of fifth disease was circa 1941

Dictionary Entries Near fifth disease

Cite this Entry

“Fifth disease.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/fifth%20disease. Accessed 5 Nov. 2024.

Medical Definition

fifth disease

noun
: an acute eruptive disease especially of children that is caused by a parvovirus (species Human parvovirus B19 virus of the genus Erythrovirus), that is first manifested by a blotchy red rash on the cheeks followed by a maculopapular rash on the extremities, and that is usually accompanied by fever and malaise

called also erythema infectiosum

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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