Fifth disease on the rise in Europe and the US

A significant increase in cases of infection with parvovirus B19, more commonly known as the Fifth disease, has been reported in Europe and the United States by the online scientific journal Jama. In individuals without underlying health conditions, the infection is typically mild or asymptomatic. However, in certain populations, such as those with immune system deficiencies or hematological disorders like sickle cell anemia, as well as pregnant women, the infection can manifest more severely. As evidenced by data released by the American Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the proportion of individuals exhibiting IgM antibodies against parvovirus B19, a marker of recent infection, has increased from a rate of less than 3% during the period spanning 2022 to 2024 to a rate of 10% in June 2024. Furthermore, among children aged 5-9, the percentage increased markedly from 15% in 2022-2024 to 40% in June 2024. The absence of a vaccine or antiviral therapy for the infection has prompted the CDC to issue a health advisory.