Preventing Parvovirus B19

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Key points

  • There is no vaccine or treatment to prevent a parvovirus B19 infection.
  • Follow core respiratory virus prevention strategies to prevent the spread of parvovirus B19.
  • See your healthcare provider if you are infected while pregnant or have an underlying blood disorder or weakened immune system.
Wash your hands often with soap and water to prevent Parvovirus B19.

How it spreads

Parvovirus B19 can spread from person to person:

  • through respiratory particles
  • through blood or blood products
  • during pregnancy (from mother to baby)

Facts about Parvovirus B19 Infection

In the United States, people tend to get infected with parvovirus B19 more often in late winter, spring, and early summer. Minor outbreaks of parvovirus B19 infection occur about every 3 to 4 years.

Parvovirus B19 Only Infects People

Since parvovirus B19 only infects people, you cannot get the virus from a dog or cat. Also, dogs and cats cannot get parvovirus B19 from an infected person.

Dogs and cats can get infected with other parvoviruses that do not infect people.

Keep Reading About Parvovirus B19

Risk to others

You are most contagious during the first few days of having symptoms. You are unlikely to be contagious after you get later symptoms such as rash and joint pain. It is usually safe to go back to work or school after the rash appears.

If you have a drop in blood count (anemia), you may remain contagious until your blood count improves.

If you have a parvovirus B19 infection and have a weakened immune system, you may be contagious for a longer time.

Complications from parvovirus B19

Read about your risk of complications from a parvovirus B19 infection.

Preventing respiratory viruses

There is no vaccine or treatment that can prevent parvovirus B19 infection. To prevent the spread of parvovirus B19, follow core prevention strategies for respiratory viruses:

  • Practice good hygiene (practices that improve cleanliness)
    • Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. If you don't have a tissue, cough or sneeze into your elbow, not your hands.
    • Learn and use proper handwashing technique. Frequent handwashing is especially important in childcare settings and healthcare facilities.
    • Clean frequently touched surfaces, such as countertops, handrails, and doorknobs, regularly.
  • When you have symptoms of a respiratory virus, take steps to prevent spread
Keep Reading Preventing Respiratory Viruses
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Content Source:
National Center for Immunization and Respiratory Diseases; Coronavirus and Other Respiratory Viruses Division