What is Parvovirus B19?

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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