Human Parvovirus B19 is on The Rise In The U.S. And 14 European Countries, CDC Warns

Cases of human parvovirus B19 are increasing in the U.S. and 14 European countries, according to a recent CDC health advisory. This seasonal virus is particularly affecting children aged 5 to 9.

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What is Human Parvovirus B19?

Human parvovirus B19 is a seasonal virus that spreads easily through tiny droplets when someone coughs, sneezes, or talks. Even if you don’t have symptoms, you can still pass the virus to others. The virus mainly targets red blood cells and can cause illnesses like Fifth disease. While it's more common in children, it can affect people of all ages.

What is Fifth Disease?

One of the most noticeable signs of this virus is “slapped cheek” disease, also known as Fifth disease. This bright red rash mainly appears on the faces of children who’ve been infected for about a week. Although the rash may seem alarming, it usually goes away on its own in a few days. Adults can also catch this virus, but their symptoms often include joint pain and a rash on the body.

How Does Parvovirus B19 Spread?

Parvovirus B19 spreads through coughs and sneezes. People are most contagious in the early stages of infection, even before the rash appears. After the rash develops, the risk of spreading the virus drops, and most people can resume their normal activities.

Who is at Risk for Complications?

Some groups face more severe complications from parvovirus B19. Pregnant women, people with weakened immune systems, and those with certain blood disorders need to be extra cautious. In pregnant women, the virus can cause fetal anemia or, in rare cases, miscarriage.

What are the Common Symptoms?

Most people infected with parvovirus B19 are asymptomatic. However, children may develop a fever, muscle pain, nausea, or fatigue within seven days. If infected after seven days, children often develop a facial rash. Adults commonly experience joint pain and a reticular rash on the body during the later stages of infection.

What Treatments are Available?

There’s no specific cure for parvovirus B19. Your treatment will focus on easing symptoms. If you face severe symptoms, like anemia, medical help such as blood transfusions or immunoglobulin therapy might be needed. Most infections clear up on their own within a few weeks.

How Can You Prevent Infection?
There is no vaccine for human parvovirus B19. The CDC recommends following standard virus prevention steps like wearing masks, washing hands, and avoiding shared food or drinks, especially in high-risk environments like schools.

Can Pets Catch This Virus?
Human parvovirus B19 is different from the parvovirus that affects pets. You can't transmit it between humans and animals.