Dangerous or even fatal in newborns or fetuses, as well as immunocompromised people… Everything you need to know about the Parvovirus B19 epidemic in 5 questions.
Monday April 22, Public Health France reported an acceleration of the Parvovirus B19 epidemic, originally declared in May 2023. Perinatal services recommend the greatest vigilance for pregnant women and newborns, as the infection can be fatal to the fetus, as well as infants.
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What is this disease and what are the risks?
Fever, runny nose, headache, nausea… And one hell of a rash. Those are the symptoms of human parvovirus B19 infection (or epidemic megalerythema). Hence this unappealing nickname of “slapped cheek syndrome”, or “fifth disease” (it was the fifth eruptive infectious disease discovered according to West France), which mainly affects children aged 4 to 10.
While symptoms are often mild in adults, the virus can be dangerous or even fatal for newborns and the fetus exposed to infection during pregnancy. People with diseases that impair the ability of the immune system to fight infections (such as AIDS) or even red blood cell disorders are also at risk.
Should we be worried about the epidemic?
According to Public Health France, “the number of deaths linked to Parvovirus B 19 infection was on average 1.8 per year in the pre-pandemic period and mainly affected adults”. Since January 2024, there have been five deaths due to the virus. A progression that is certainly small, but significant, which requires the vigilance of parents.
How is it caught?
The virus is generally transmitted by inhalation of droplets issued by an infected person, with symptoms appearing in 4 to 14 days. It is important to note that one can be asymptomatic. Hence the need to apply barrier gestures around vulnerable people if you have been in contact with an infected person: wear a mask, wash your hands regularly and avoid contact with people at risk.
I am pregnant, how do I know if I have been exposed to the virus?
According to Santé Publique France, certain perinatal services indicate an “increase in miscarriages and fetal deaths linked to Parvovirus B19 infection”. Are you pregnant and have symptoms? This is the blood test that will detect the presence of antibodies in your immune system, signs of a previous or current infection. In the event of a positive assessment, an ultrasound will be carried out and a monitoring implemented over three months.
And how is it treated?
Unless there are complications, the symptoms will disappear spontaneously. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) will relieve fever, headaches and excessive itching. Until then, patience and rest are recommended.