Parvovirus B-19: a known virus from the past
Parvovirus B-19 is a virus known from the past, which has a characteristic symptomatology as rashes appear on the cheeks after about 24 hours of infection.
This is a viral infection that has a characteristic rash on the cheeks of children.
It can affect healthy children, while infants, pregnant women, immunocompromised patients and patients with malignant hematological diseases are most at risk.
In the healthy population, parvovirus B-19 does not cause any particular problems – asymptomatic infection may also occur – however, in some cases, a severe infection can occur, such as the myocarditis mentioned in the case of the child who had an unfavorable outcome.
The doctor adds that these cases are rare, as myocarditis is rare in children with an annual incidence of 1-2 cases/100,000, while even rarer is the severe disease that leads to death.
There is no vaccine that can prevent parvovirus B19 infection.
As soon as parents see the rash specifically on the cheek, they should immediately contact the pediatrician so that the child can be examined.
In general, in viral infections, the general instructions given by us are that children should have good hydration and rest, proper nutrition and enough sleep for 5-10 days. In any case, there is no reason for parents to panic.
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