Parvovirus infection is a viral illness caused by the parvovirus B19. It is spread through respiratory secretions, such as saliva or mucus, and can also be spread through blood transfusions or from mother to fetus during pregnancy.

Parvovirus infection is most common in children and typically causes a mild illness with symptoms such as fever, rash, and joint pain. However, in some cases, particularly in adults and people with weakened immune systems, parvovirus infection can cause more severe symptoms, including anemia, joint swelling and pain, and a temporary halt in the production of new red blood cells.

There is no specific treatment for parvovirus infection, and most cases resolve on their own without complications. However, people with more severe symptoms may require supportive care, such as blood transfusions or medications to manage pain and inflammation.

Prevention measures for parvovirus infection include frequent hand washing, avoiding close contact with people who are sick, and ensuring that blood products used in medical treatments are screened for the virus. Pregnant women who are exposed to parvovirus should seek medical attention, as the infection can be harmful to the fetus.

The human parvovirus B19 causes parvovirus infection. This is different from the parvovirus seen in dogs and cats, so you can't get the infection from a pet or vice versa.

Human parvovirus infection is most common among elementary school-age children during outbreaks in the winter and spring months, but anyone can become ill with it anytime of the year. It spreads from person to person, just like a cold, often through breathing, coughing and saliva, so it can spread through close contact between people and hand-to-hand contact.

Parvovirus infection can also spread through blood. An infected pregnant woman can pass the virus to her baby.

The illness is contagious in the week before the rash appears. Once the rash appears, you or your child are no longer considered contagious and don't need to be isolated.

There's no vaccine to prevent human parvovirus infection. Once you've become infected with parvovirus, you get lifelong immunity. You may reduce the chances of getting an infection by washing your hands and your child's hands often, not touching your face, avoiding people who are ill, and not sharing food or drinks.

For an uncomplicated parvovirus infection, self-care treatment at home is generally sufficient. People with severe anemia may need to stay in the hospital and receive blood transfusions. Those with weakened immune systems may receive antibodies, via immune globulin injections, to treat the infection.