Tuesday, February 23, 2010

Parvovirus What?

Last week, Abbi woke up with the strangest looking symptoms. Red cheeks and a lacy rash that covered her entire body. Itchy, annoying. We took her to Urgent care where they diagnosed it as probably being an allergic reaction of sorts. Possibly a virus. The doctor felt it was probably due to the cheap purple fingernail polish Abbi was sporting at the time, or one of the variety of Valentine's Day tattoo's that decorated her arms. Doctors orders: Benadryl.
It's Monday, a call from the school nurse. "Mrs. Ford, I think you need to come pick Madison up. She is complaining she doesn't feel well, and she has a rash on her limbs. Looks like fifths disease".
A light bulb moment! I knew Abbi didn't have an allergic reaction. She is never that simple. I head straight to the computer. Google: Fifth disease.
Fifths disease or Parvovirus B19;
A mild rash illness that occurs most commonly in children. The ill child typically has a "slapped-cheek" rash on the face and a lacy red rash on the trunk and limbs. Occasionally, the rash may itch. An ill child may have a low-grade fever, malaise, or a "cold" a few days before the rash breaks out. The child is usually not very ill, and the rash resolves in 7 to 10 days.
The good news... once the rash appears, they are no longer contagious.
The bad news...If I am infected, the virus can cause severe anemia to our unborn baby. 9 out of 10 result in miscarriage.
I went to the doctor today and they did a blood test to see if I am immune to the virus. I am hoping that at some point I have already been exposed and this will not be an issue.
Now we play the waiting game.
Not fun.



4 comments:

Shay Brackney said...

Oh man, Sara...Keeping you in my thoughts and prayers while you wait...I hate waiting.

Cindy said...

I'll be praying for you and your baby. I hope you get good news and soon.

korie said...

Oh Sara. I hope everything is okay! Good luck with the waiting game that is always hard. Love ya lots!

jerseygirl said...

oh no, thats horrible. We had a child come into the office with that while Heidi Coats was pregnant and I do remember her being nervous. We hope everything is okay and will be praying for you as well. I hope the girls feels better. Miss you and hope we can see you in April!