Parvovirus B19: What You Need to Know
A Complete Guide to the Human Parvovirus
Parvovirus B19 is a virus that solely affects humans, unlike the parvovirus that affects pets. On August 13, 2024, the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) issued a Health Alert Network (HAN) regarding Parvovirus B19.
Causes and Symptoms
Parvovirus B19 is a seasonal respiratory virus transmitted through respiratory droplets by infected individuals. Most infected people show no symptoms or mild symptoms like a sore throat and headache.
However, Parvovirus B19 can be severe for:
- Pregnant women
- People with chronic anemia
- People with weakened immune systems
Diagnosis and Treatment
Diagnosis typically involves a blood test. Treatment depends on the severity of infection:
- For mild cases, supportive care and rest are recommended.
- For severe cases, antiviral medications or blood transfusions may be necessary.
Prevention
Prevention strategies include:
- Washing hands frequently
- Covering coughs and sneezes
- Avoiding close contact with infected individuals
For pregnant women, additional precautions include seeking medical attention if exposed to the virus and considering immunoglobulin therapy to prevent fetal infection.
Additional Information
- CDC: Parvovirus B19
- Mayo Clinic: Parvovirus B19
- National Institute of Child Health and Human Development: Parvovirus B19
