PARVOVIRUS B19 (Syllabus: GS Paper 3 – Sci and Tech)
Context: The US centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recently issued a healthy advisory due to concerning rise in cases of parvovirus B19.
Parvovirus B19
- About: It is highly contagious and affects those with weakened immune systems particularly.
- Known for: Slapped Cheek Illness
- Fifth Disease: Historically categorized as the fifth common childhood illness with a rash.
- Transmission:
o Airborne Spread: The virus spreads through airborne droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes.
o Blood Contamination: It can also be transmitted through blood or contaminated blood products.
o Maternal-Fetal Transmission: Pregnant individuals can transmit the virus to the fetus through the placenta.
- Symptoms:
o Asymptomatic Cases: Many people with parvovirus infection show no signs or symptoms.
o Age-Dependent Symptoms: Symptoms vary with age; children often have a "slapped cheek" rash, while adults may experience joint pains.
- Treatment:
o Self-Limiting: Infections usually resolve on their own without specific treatment.
o Symptom Relief: Treatment focuses on alleviating symptoms like fever, itching, and joint pain.
