Slap Virus Outbreak Alert: Symptoms

Megaloerythema, erythema infectiosum, also known as slap disease‘this is a viral disease caused by parvovirus B19. The European Center for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) warns of an “unusual increase” in several EU countries and warns high-risk populations children and pregnant women, suffering from complications.

B19V is the cause childhood illness often begins with mild symptoms (headache, runny nose or discomfort) and then rash on cheeks bright red.

Pregnant women, especially first months of pregnancy, may suffer complications and have a “low to moderate” risk. People are also vulnerable immunocompromised and with hematological disorders chronic because it can cause a transient aplastic crisis. Risk for general population considered low.

Alert in 14 European countries

ECDC has notified 14 countries about the spread of the “slap virus”. A report has been prepared for public health professionals and relevant authorities outlining measures that can be taken to address this problem.

What does the ECDC recommend? Pregnant women are advised to avoid contact with sick people and, if possible, work remotely. Also, check your antibody status with your doctor, especially if you work in education or child care.

They also recommend that people with health problems try ftiredness, paleness, or difficulty breathing Seek medical attention immediately.

Outbreaks in Navarre

Institute of Public and Occupational Health Navarre (ISPLN) already discovered first shoots belonging parvovirus B19 or the “slap virus”, which Transmitted by contact with secretions.

“Cause outbreaks in schools and children’s groups“, points out ISPLN, which states that “circulation of this virus has also been described in other places in Europe.” The most characteristic symptom is severe erythema on the cheeks. And he asks for peace of mind because most cases are mild or asymptomatic.

Navarre’s health authorities are mindful of the importance of hand hygiene, avoiding sharing food and drinks to avoid infection, and that people with immunodeficiencies, hemolytic anemia and pregnant women avoid contact with those who are sick.

Symptoms of “slap disease”

He parvovirus B19 affects the entire population, especially children. Dr. Isabel Vives, a pediatrician at the Quironsalud Hospital in Barcelona, ​​is sending families a message of peace of mind: “Most children recover quickly and without complications,” she says on the hospital center’s blog.

The virus is transmitted by talking, coughing or sneezing. It’s the same, very contagiousbut in most cases It is soft and does not require insulation..

In addition to fever and general malaise, a rash on the skin (face, limbs) is also detected, which in some cases may be bright red, but not itchy.

Washing your hands, coughing into your elbow, and not sharing kitchen utensils such as forks, spoons, or glasses with an infected person prevents new transmission of the infection.

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