A seasonal respiratory virus that hasn’t been much of an issue since the COVID-19 pandemic is on the rise once again. The CDC issued a health alert on Tuesday, Aug. 13, over human parvovirus – more commonly known as parvo.
That name might sound more familiar to dog owners. It’s one of the most contagious illnesses among canines — so much so, the parvo vaccine is included in their regular immunizations.
But parvo can be a human illness too, and the CDC says it’s been getting more reports of people testing positive for this variant of the virus lately.
Parvo is spread through respiratory droplets. Adults are usually less likely to catch the illness, due to exposure to parvo when they were young. Most have antibodies built up against the illness. According to the CDC, people who work with children, like in schools or daycares, are at a higher risk for infection.
The agency said it’s been getting more reports of parvo among those who are pregnant, leading to complications like severe fetal anemia or miscarriage, and increases in aplastic anemia in those with sickle cell disease.
Most people with parvo don’t show any symptoms, but if they do, the CDC said symptoms come in two phases.
About a week after infection, an individual might experience a fever, muscle aches or general malaise. This phase is when people are most contagious, and it usually lasts around five days.
Then, in the second phase of the illness, children usually develop a hallmark facial rash often called a “slapped cheek rash,” followed by a body rash or joint pain. Adults often have a rash on their torso, coupled with back and joint pain.
There’s no human vaccine for parvo, nor is there a specific treatment other than easing symptoms. The CDC said most infections will clear up on their own.
