How do you know if you have parvovirus?

A bright red rash on the cheeks is a distinctive sign of parvovirus infection. Parvovirus infection is a common and highly contagious childhood illness. It’s sometimes called slapped-cheek disease because of the distinctive face rash that develops.

What does parvovirus IgG positive mean?

The parvovirus B19 IgG test may be ordered along with the parvovirus B19 IgM test. If IgG and IgM results are positive, the tested person may have an active parvovirus B19 infection or may have been recently infected with the virus. If only the IgM result is positive, the infection may be developing.

How did I get parvovirus?

Transmission. Parvovirus B19 spreads through respiratory secretions, such as saliva, sputum, or nasal mucus, when an infected person coughs or sneezes. Parvovirus B19 can also spread through blood or blood products. A pregnant woman who is infected with parvovirus B19 can pass the virus to her baby.

How long does parvovirus IgM stay positive?

Positive IgG and IgM results indicate infection within the last 7-120 days (possible risk to fetus).

Is fifth disease the same as Hand Foot and Mouth?

Unlike other viral infections that usually cause hand, foot, and mouth disease (namely coxsackievirus A16 and enterovirus 71), fifth disease does not typically involve the palms and soles. However, some adults infected with parvovirus B19 can develop redness and swelling of hands and feet.

How do they test for parvovirus?

A blood sample drawn from a vein in your arm for parvovirus B19 antibody testing; to detect the virus itself, the sample tested may be blood or, rarely, bone marrow; in certain cases, fetal cord blood or amniotic fluid may be collected to test for fetal parvovirus B19 infection.

How did my baby get fifth disease?

Fifth disease is caused by a virus called parvovirus B19. The virus is spread by droplets in the air when someone who is infected sneezes or coughs. Most children with fifth disease catch it at school or daycare. The virus can spread from person to person (is contagious) in its early stages, before the rash appears.