They warn of “unusual growth” of parvovirus B19, which is threatening children and pregnant women.

Several European countries are on alert due to an “unusual increase” of parvovirus B19, an infection also known as megaloerythema or 5th disease. This erythema or infectious exanthema – a reddish color of the skin – is a disease that threatens high-risk populations such as children and pregnant women, as well as vulnerable populations. The recommendations come from the European Center for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC).

B19V is the cause of a common childhood illness that usually causes mild symptoms such as fever, rash and joint pain. Pregnant women, especially in the early stages of pregnancy, are at risk of complications if infected. Serious complications may occur in immunocompromised people and people with chronic hematological diseases (such as sickle cell disease or thalassemia). The rest of the population is at low risk.