Experts warn of rising parvovirus B19 as school year begins

ROANOKE, Va. (WDBJ) - As the back-to-school season kicks off, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued a new health alert about a respiratory virus that’s gaining attention this year: parvovirus B19.

Despite its name, which might be more commonly associated with canine diseases, the strain currently of concern is specifically a human variant.

“Parvovirus, which you know a lot of people see in dogs, but there is a human variant of parvo,” said Central Health Vice President of Emergency Services James Bryant. “So, they’re beginning to see a little bit of it in children.”

It is a human-specific virus that is part of the same family as the canine parvovirus, but does not cross-infect between dogs and humans. Bryant says this virus especially affects children three to nine years old.

The virus is contagious and spreads through respiratory droplets, which are released when an infected person sneezes or coughs. This makes the back-to-school period, when children are in close contact, a prime time for the virus to spread.

Some children may not exhibit any noticeable signs, while others might experience fever, headache, cough, sore throat, rash, and joint pain. Children may have the “slapped cheek” rash, which appears as red patches on the face.

“If your child has those types of symptoms, you know, contact your pediatrician,” explained Bryant. “Again, it’s usually a mild, self limited disease, but it’s just another thing to add to what parents and all of us have to worry about.”

The disease poses greater risks to certain groups. Pregnant women, individuals with weakened immune systems, and those with specific blood disorders are particularly vulnerable.

“It attacks bone marrow cells, primarily red blood cells or the precursors to red blood cells,” said Orlando Health Dr. Gregory John Locksmith. “So, it tends to cause anemia.”

There is no vaccine available for parvovirus B19. Doctors emphasize the importance of good hygiene practices to limit the spread of the virus.

“It’s all those things that your grandmother taught you, you know, wash your hands, try to stay away, cover your cough, cover your sneeze, you know, those type of things,” added Bryant. “Try not to touch your face. Those are things that really do help prevent a lot of illnesses from spreading.”

While the disease is typically mild, being informed and prepared can help manage the impact on children’s health and ease concerns during this busy season.