A recent advisory from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has highlighted a concerning increase in cases of parvovirus B19, a respiratory disease, across all age groups in the United States. The CDC issued a health alert on Aug. 13 following reports of high numbers of cases in 14 European countries during the first quarter of 2024.
Parvovirus B19, also known as 'slapped cheek disease' due to the characteristic rash it causes on the cheeks, can range from mild to severe, with pregnant individuals and those with compromised immune systems being at higher risk of serious illness.
The virus spreads easily through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes, making children particularly susceptible as they can transmit the virus at school and then to adults at home. Family members are at a high risk of contracting the virus from an infected individual, with school outbreaks also contributing to its spread.
Common symptoms of parvovirus B19 include flu-like symptoms such as fever, muscle pain, and fatigue, followed by the distinctive 'slapped cheek' rash. While children are most contagious during the early phase of the illness, adults may experience a generalized rash and joint pain, with joint pain potentially lasting for weeks.
Fortunately, antibodies developed after an initial infection provide lifelong immunity against parvovirus B19, with most adults in the U.S. already immune. However, the largest increase in infections has been observed among children aged 5 to 9, emphasizing the importance of preventive measures in settings with close contact among children, such as schools and daycares.
Health experts recommend staying vigilant, especially for individuals at higher risk, and following proper hygiene practices to reduce the spread of the virus and protect vulnerable populations.
