The CDC reports increased activity of parvovirus B19, a seasonal respiratory virus, with the most significant rise among children.
RT’s Three Key Takeaways:
- Increased Parvovirus B19 Activity: The CDC has observed a rise in parvovirus B19 activity across the United States, particularly among children aged 5 to 9.
- Transmission and Risk Factors: Parvovirus B19, a seasonal respiratory virus, spreads easily through respiratory droplets, especially in close-contact environments like households and schools, with higher exposure risks for those working closely with children.
- CDC Recommendations: The CDC advises healthcare providers to be vigilant in identifying and managing parvovirus B19 cases, particularly in high-risk groups such as pregnant individuals, those with compromised immune systems, and people with chronic hemolytic disorders.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued a health advisory in response to an increase in parvovirus B19 activity across the United States.
This seasonal respiratory virus, transmitted through respiratory droplets, is spreading at higher-than-usual rates, reflecting similar trends observed earlier this year in 14 European countries.
While there is no routine surveillance for parvovirus B19 in the US, the CDC says it has received reports indicating a surge in test positivity rates for the virus in clinical specimens and pooled plasma samples, along with reports of clusters of parvovirus B19-associated complications among pregnant individuals and those with sickle cell disease.
The CDC’s data shows a rise in the proportion of individuals with IgM antibodies—an indicator of recent infection—from less than 3% during 2022-2024 to 10% in June 2024. The most significant increase was observed in children aged 5 to 9, with levels rising from 15% during 2022-2024 to 40% in June 2024.
Parvovirus B19
Parvovirus B19 spreads easily through respiratory droplets, particularly in environments where close contact is common, such as households and schools. Those working with children, like daycare workers and teachers, face a higher risk of exposure. By the age of 40, most adults have developed antibodies against the virus, which are thought to protect them from future infections.
While many people with parvovirus B19 are asymptomatic, for those who show symptoms, the virus usually progresses in two stages. The initial stage, which appears about a week after infection, includes symptoms like fever, muscle aches, and malaise, and is when the virus is most easily transmitted.
The second stage, occurring around seven to 10 days after the first phase, often presents as a facial rash—a “slapped cheek” appearance—in children and a reticular rash on the trunk in immunocompetent adults. Both children and adults may experience joint pain. Most individuals recover with basic supportive care, though the virus can cause complications in certain groups, such as pregnant individuals, those with weakened immune systems, or those with specific blood disorders, according to the CDC.
CDC’s Recommendations for Healthcare Providers
The CDC recommends healthcare providers maintain a heightened awareness of parvovirus B19, particularly when encountering patients who present with symptoms such as fever, rash, joint pain, or unexplained anemia.
The CDC says to consider testing for parvovirus B19 in individuals who present with symptoms and are at an increased risk of severe disease, including pregnant patients, those with immunocompromising conditions, and individuals with chronic hemolytic blood disorders.
In cases where parvovirus B19 is suspected or confirmed, the CDC says healthcare providers should inform patients about the potential risks to vulnerable groups and advise them to seek further medical guidance if they have been exposed. The CDC says providers should also emphasize preventive measures, such as good hand hygiene and taking steps for cleaner air, to reduce the spread of parvovirus B19 in both healthcare and community settings.
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