The CDC has issued a health advisory regarding a significant increase in cases of parvovirus B19, a highly contagious respiratory virus, especially among children aged 5 to 9 in the United States. Known as "slapped cheek disease" due to the characteristic facial rash it can cause, parvovirus B19 usually results in mild symptoms and does not require extensive treatment in healthy children and adults. However, those who are pregnant, immunocompromised, or have certain blood disorders are at a higher risk of severe complications if infected.
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Parvovirus B19, commonly spread through airborne droplets, causes
"fifth disease," and minor outbreaks typically occur in late winter,
spring, and early summer. The CDC has reported an increase in antibody presence
from less than 3% in previous years to 10% by June 2024, with the most
significant rise among young children. This increase mirrors trends observed in
Europe, where 14 countries reported unusually high numbers of cases earlier in
2024.
Symptoms of parvovirus can include fever, muscle aches, cough, sore throat,
and malaise. Later stages often involve a rash, particularly on the face, and
joint pain, with most cases resolving without severe outcomes. However,
individuals with weakened immune systems, those who are pregnant, or people
with certain blood conditions may face more serious health risks, such as
aplastic anemia or adverse fetal outcomes.
While there is no vaccine for parvovirus B19, treatment usually focuses on
symptom relief. The CDC advises the public to follow general respiratory virus
prevention guidelines, with high-risk individuals possibly needing additional
precautions like wearing masks. Pregnant women exposed to parvovirus are
encouraged to seek medical attention promptly. It's also important to note that
human parvovirus B19 is different from the virus affecting dogs and cats and
cannot be transmitted between pets and humans.
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