What is Human parvovirus B19? CDC warns 'slapped cheek' virus on the rise in US

The US Centersfor Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) warned the United States on Tuesday (Aug 13), about a highly contagious respiratory infection called parvovirus B19, also known as the "fifth disease". The US is seeing an increase in thenumber of cases of thefifth disease, especially among young children.

As per the CDC, parvovirus B19 is a seasonal respiratory virus that can be transmitted through respiratory droplets by people with asymptomatic or symptomatic infections.

In the first three months of 2024, an unusually high number of cases of parvovirus B19 were observed in 14 European countries. However, in the United States, parvovirus B19 is not under routine surveillance, and it is not a notifiable condition.

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A report by Forbes stated that the infections are generally asymptomatic and cause mild, flu-like illness. The symptoms include muscle aches, fever, headache, and fatigue. During the second stage of the disease, people can experience facial rash, often known as a "slapped cheek", joint pains, swelling, and body rash.

The infections usually go away with time, and while there isno specific treatmentfor the disease, it can be controlled by treating the symptoms. However, for people with weak immune systems and blood disorders, the disease can lead to some serious complications, such as anaemia.

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For pregnant mothers, the virus can also spread from mother to foetus, and according to the CDC, there is a five to 10 per centchance of adverse effects on the pregnancy of the mother, including miscarriage.

As per CDC, it is considered safe to resume work/school, once the rash appears. It states that people are more contagious in the first few days of the symptoms, and after that, they are generally safe and non-contagious.

The CDC advises people to take general precautions, such as properly washing hands, and covering their mouth and nose with a mask, as there are no vaccines to cure parvovirus B19 infection.

(With inputs from agencies)