A highly contagious respiratory virus that causes “slapped cheek” disease is making a comeback, especially among young children, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
The agency issued a health advisory on Tuesday, noting a sharp uptick in parvovirus B19 activity across the U.S. over the past two years. The virus, which causes a distinctive facial rash, is typically mild in children and healthy adults, often requiring minimal treatment. However, those who are immunocompromised or pregnant face significant risks of severe outcomes.
What is Parvovirus B19?
Parvovirus B19, often called “fifth disease,” is a highly contagious virus known for causing a distinctive “slapped cheek” facial rash, particularly in children. It is common during late winter, spring and early summer, and spreads through respiratory droplets when people talk, breathe, cough or sneeze.
Why is there a health advisory?
The CDC reported a sharp increase in parvovirus B19 cases, particularly among young children. This follows “unusually high numbers of cases” observed in Europe. The agency noted there is “no routine surveillance for parvovirus B19, and it is not a notifiable condition,” so it is impossible to know the full scope of infections in the U.S.
Why is parvovirus B19 making a comeback?
Parvovirus B19 is resurging as COVID-19 precautions like social distancing and mask-wearing had previously reduced its transmission, leading to lowered immunity.
What are the symptoms?
Symptoms can range from none to mild, flu-like symptoms including fatigue, headache, muscle aches and fever. A notable symptom in children is the “slapped cheek” rash, followed by joint pain, swelling and a general body rash. Adults may experience joint pain and a body rash.
How is the virus spread?
Parvovirus B19 primarily spreads from person to person via respiratory droplets when someone coughs or sneezes. People are most contagious during the early stages of illness before the rash appears. Once the rash develops, the risk of spreading the virus decreases, and most individuals can return to normal activities.
Who is at risk for complications?
High-risk groups include pregnant women, immunocompromised individuals and those with certain blood disorders. In pregnant women, the virus can lead to complications such as fetal anemia and, in rare cases, miscarriage.
What treatments are available?
There is no specific cure for parvovirus B19. Treatment focuses on relieving symptoms. Severe cases, especially those involving anemia, may require medical interventions like blood transfusions or immunoglobulin therapy. Most infections resolve on their own within a few weeks.
What preventive measures are recommended?
The CDC advises following standard respiratory virus prevention guidelines, and high-risk individuals should consider wearing masks and seeking medical care if symptoms develop. Pregnant women, in particular, should consult health care providers if exposed.
Why is it called “fifth disease”?
Parvovirus B19 is referred to as “fifth disease” for its historical classification as the fifth childhood rash illness, following measles, rubella, chicken pox and roseola.
Is this virus transmissible to pets?
Human parvovirus B19 is not the same as the parvovirus that affects pets. It cannot be transmitted between humans and animals.
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