Human Parvovirus B19 Outbreak Linked to School Start

The CDC has recently published a health alert concerning the increasing prevalence of human parvovirus B19. Since December 2023, the number of reported cases has increased 13 times drawing concern among healthcare providers due to the connection between the outbreak and children starting to go to school.

It should be noted, that there are several types of parvovirus B19, and the one affecting humans is a separate strain not connected to the virus found in pets. It is still a respiratory virus and, similarly to other similar germs, highly contagious. The most common symptoms of human parvovirus B19 infection are fever with varying degrees, fatigue, joint aches, and a characteristic “slapped cheek” rash. The majority of people recover without lasting complications within two weeks, but just like with other common viruses, the disease is dangerous for the elderly, pregnant women, and those with weakened immune systems. In such cases, the infection may evolve into severe complications varying from reduced blood count to risks for the fetus, which may result in fatal outcomes. Unlike the animal types of the virus, human parvovirus B19 has no vaccine, and the best way to avoid contracting it is isolating oneself from others while having the symptoms of the viral infection, practicing good hand hygiene, and avoiding spreading the disease through respiratory secretion. The outbreak is especially dangerous for people from high-risk categories and requires increased attention to prevention.