23-04-2024
What Is Parvovirus Infection and How to Protect Against It?
The causative agent of the infection is parvovirus B19 that infects humans only.
Symptoms
Symptoms occur 5-15 days after infection. In children, parvovirus B19 infection usually manifests as infectious erythema (redness of the skin due to inflammation). The rash may be preceded by a low temperature. It begins with slapped cheek appearance, followed by pink spots and papules. Subsequently, the rash appears on the limbs and trunk that fades into lace-like pattern. It lasts 1-2 weeks. It is more common in children than adults.
Parvovirus B19 can be transmitted from person to person by respiratory droplets, blood and blood product transfusions, and from mother to child during pregnancy.
A person is most contagious early in their infection, when they will typically just have a fever or cold-like symptoms. They are not likely to be contagious after they get later symptoms such as rash and joint pains, so it is usually safe to go back to work or school when the rash appears.
Parvovirus infection is not on the list of Communicable Diseases or related special health conditions that are registered by the personal and public health facilities (Annex 1 https://e-seimas.lrs.lt/portal/legalAct/lt/TAD/TAIS.204745/asr), therefore doctors who suspect and/or detect the infection do not have access to provide such information to NPHC. For this reason, information on the extent of the incidence of parvovirus infection in Lithuania is not available.
How to protect against parvovirus?
There is no vaccine that can prevent parvovirus B19 infection. You can protect yourself and others from parvovirus B19 by taking everyday preventive measures such as:
- Wash your hands frequently with soap and water;
- Cover your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing;
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands;
- Avoid close contact with sick people;
- Stay home when you are sick.