Parvovirus B19​

In the United States, people tend to get infected with parvovirus B19 (also known as Fifth Disease) more often in late winter, spring, and early summer. Parvovirus B19 only infects people, a person cannot get the virus from a dog or cat. Also, dogs and cats cannot get parvovirus B19 from an infected person. These animals can get infected with other parvoviruses that do not infect people.

Parvovirus B19 infection usually causes no symptoms or very mild symptoms that feel like you have the flu. This includes rashes and joint pains, and very low blood count in individuals who already have a blood disorder or a weakened immune system. An infection during pregnancy can sometimes lead to additional complications including miscarriage​​.​

Symptoms can be mild and include:

  • Fever
  • Headache
  • Cough
  • Sore Throat
  • Rashes
  • Joint Pain

How it spreads:

  • Respiratory particles
  • Blood or blood products
  • During pregnancy (mother to baby)

Increased risk for complications if you have these health conditions:

  • Leukemia or other types of cancer
  • Organ Transplant
  • HIV infection
  • Blood disorders (sickle cell disease and Thalassemia)

​Prevention of Parvovirus B19

  • No vaccine or treatment can prevent infection
  • Follow general respiratory precautions
  • See healthcare provider if you have complications or infected while pregnant

Treatment

  • Mild and can go away on own
  • Those who are healthy usually recover quickly
  • Involves relieving symptoms of fever, itching, joint pain, and swelling
  • Individuals with low blood count:
    • Supportive care
    • Blood products
    • Other specialized therapies

Resources

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