Fifth Disease המחלה החמישית

District 203 is taking no chances after two of their students were recently diagnosed with fifth disease.

The first case appeared weeks ago at Elmwood School, and a second was reported in late February at Ann Reid Early Childhood Center.

The viral infection is generally mild, but contagious, and manifests with the sudden appearance of bright red cheeks, thus its alternate name, “slapped cheek syndrome.” Other symptoms include swelling, itching, joint pain and fever.

Though of little risk to most, it can be of worry to pregnant women, who, if infected, have a slight risk of their fetus developing severe anemia, as well as a chance of miscarriage.

For that reason, the district is going above and beyond required protocol to alert parents, as well as staff and administration to the reported cases. That’s in addition to signs posted outside of the main offices of the schools to notify visitors.

A third case was also recently reported at Kennedy Junior High in Lisle.

Naperville News 17's Kim Pirc Reports.