Infectious erythema is a disease caused by the human Parvovirus 19 virus, which can then be called human parvovirus. Infection with this virus is more common in children and adolescents through contact with air secretions released when speaking or coughing, for example.
Human parvovirus disease has nothing to do with canine parvovirus, since the virus responsible for this disease in animals, which is usually Parvovirus 2, has no effect on humans.
Infectious erythema is characterized by the presence of red spots and rashes on the arms, legs and face, and is usually the treatment performed with the aim of relieving symptoms. In the case of infection by the virus during pregnancy, it is important to go to the obstetrician to establish the best form of treatment.
Main symptoms
The most characteristic symptom of infectious erythema is the presence of red spots on the skin, especially the arms, legs and face. Other symptoms indicative of human parvovirus are:
- Itchy skin; Headache; Stomach pain; Excessive tiredness; Paleness around the mouth; Malaise; Low fever; Joint pain, especially hands, wrists, knees and ankles, this symptom being more characteristic in adults infected by virus.
Symptoms usually appear 5 to 20 days after contact with the virus and the spots are more apparent when the person is exposed to the sun for a long time or to extreme temperatures.
The diagnosis of this disease is made by the doctor through the analysis of the described symptoms, and hematological and biochemical tests may also be requested to confirm the infection.
Parvovirus in pregnancy
In pregnancy, Parvovirus infection can be serious due to the chance of vertical transmission, that is, from the mother to the fetus, which can result in changes in the development of the fetus, intrauterine anemia, fetal heart failure and even abortion.
In addition to pregnancy, this disease can be serious when the person has a compromised immune system, as the body cannot respond well to infection, and there is no cure. This can result in blood changes, joint pain and even anemia.
How the treatment is done
The treatment for infectious erythema is done symptomatically, that is, it aims to relieve the symptoms presented by the person. In the case of joint or head pain, the use of analgesics, for example, may be indicated by the doctor.
Normally, the infection is fought by the immune system itself, requiring only rest and drink plenty of fluids to facilitate the healing process.
Human parvovirus does not have a vaccine, so the best way to prevent infection with this virus is to wash your hands thoroughly and avoid contact with sick people.
