Well...
Saturday morning
Saturday evening
Sunday morning
Sunday afternoon (after running around A LOT in a warm room)
And Sunday evening.
Add to that the slightest come and go lacy rash on his limbs, and Dr. Mom and recent Parvovirus B19 expert has diagnosed him with Fifth's. I'll confirm with the pediatrician tomorrow, and I'll confirm with my OB that there is no additional concern for me since I have already been exposed, had the virus, and have the antibodies present in my blood. And, for those not familiar with this illness, now that Benjamin has the rash and "slapped cheeks" look, he is no longer contagious. The best news for him is he never showed the other symptoms before the virus such as the runny nose, fever, etc. He acted great yesterday. He was however quite ornery for the first half of today, and I don't know whether to blame it on the virus or just on him being a two-year-old boy. I am unsure of how long before the rash appeared that he was contagious, but it's probably safe to say at least a few days up to a week before. Since he didn't have any of the other symptoms I have no way of really knowing.
So, that's what's new in our house.
I'll say it again as a pregnant woman who is going through this headache. If you or someone you know if pregnant, and there is any inkling that you think you may have been exposed to Fifth's Disease (Parvorvirus B19) please contact your doctor to see if they want you to have a blood test. It is better to be safe and take precautions than mess around with the nasty pregnancy complications that can arise. We have been fortunate so far, and we are giving God the glory. I've included information below in case you want to know more about the illness, or if you are curious about the symptoms that adults can develop with this virus.
The more you know:
CDC Fifth's info
Kid's Health Fifth's info
Mayo Clinic Fifth's info
