What is Parvovirus B19?

About Parvovirus B19:

• It is a highly contagious and common illness, particularly in those with weakened immune systems. 
• It is commonly known as the “slapped cheek” illness due to the characteristic reddening of the cheeks it causes. 
• Parvovirus infection has also been known as ‘Fifth disease’ because, historically, it was fifth in a list of common childhood illnesses characterized by a rash.
• Transmission:
  • The virus can be spread through airborne droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes.
  • It may also spread through blood or contaminated blood products.
  • Pregnant people with parvovirus can spread the virus to the fetus through the placenta.
• Complications:
  • In most children, parvovirus infection is mild and needs little treatment.
  • But in some adults, the infection can be serious. Parvovirus infection in some pregnant women can lead to serious health problems for the fetus.
  • The infection is also more serious for people with some kinds of anemia or who have a compromised immune system.
• Symptoms:
  • Most people with parvovirus infection have no signs or symptoms.
  • When symptoms do appear, they vary greatly depending on how old you are when you get the disease.
  • Common symptoms include “slapped cheek” rash in children, and joint pains in adults.
• Treatment:
  • Parvovirus B19 infections are usually mild and will go away on their own.
  • Treatment usually involves relieving symptoms, such as fever, itching, and joint pain and swelling. 

Q1: What is a Virus?

A virus is an infectious microbe consisting of a segment of nucleic acid (either DNA or RNA) surrounded by a protein coat. A virus cannot replicate alone; instead, it must infect cells and use components of the host cell to make copies of itself. Often, a virus ends up killing the host cell in the process, causing damage to the host organism. Well-known examples of viruses causing human disease include AIDS, COVID-19, measles and smallpox.

Source: Parvovirus B19 Alert: What is ‘Slapped Cheek’ Disease? All You Need to Know About This Rising Respiratory Virus

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