The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued a health advisory about a significant increase in cases of parvovirus B19, commonly known as fifth disease or “slapped cheek” illness because it causes common reddening of the cheeks. According to the agency, the illness can be particularly dangerous for pregnant women.
The CDC examined individuals with IgM antibodies indicating recent infection, and found that the largest increase occurred in children aged 5-9 years, where cases “increased from 15% during 2022-2024 to 40% in June 2024.” Across all age groups, the prevalence of these antibodies increased from 3% during 2022-2024 to 10% in June 2024. People Report.
The CDC says parvovirus B19 is “highly contagious in respiratory droplets.” Symptoms such as fever and malaise typically develop about a week after exposure. During the second week, the distinctive facial rash appears, often accompanied by body aches.
While most people require only supportive care, pregnant women are at risk for “adverse fetal outcomes,” including fetal anemia, non-immune hydrops (which can put pressure on the heart), or fetal loss. The risk is highest if a pregnant woman is infected with parvovirus between 9 and 20 weeks of pregnancy.
One case highlighted by NBC News involves Abby Parks, a teacher from Springfield, Illinois, who contracted parvovirus B19 at 18 weeks of pregnancy, resulting in fetal anemia. She was hospitalized and received a blood transfusion, which she believes was “lifesaving” for her fetus. “If this anemia had persisted, with a low blood count, the baby could have died,” Parks said.
The CDC has received reports from physicians that they have seen “higher than expected numbers” of pregnant individuals with parvovirus B19, including cases of severe fetal anemia requiring blood transfusions or resulting in miscarriage.
The agency recommends that pregnant women should seek medical attention if they are exposed to parvovirus B19. However, patients are no longer contagious once the facial rash appears.
Now at 30 weeks, Parks says she and her fetus are under close monitoring, describing the illness as “really the most difficult experience.” She adds, “There was no certainty that the fetus would recover from anemia.”