Parvovirus B19 (Fifth disease)

Potential Effect on Fetus

  • Fetal loss
  • Hydrops
  • Anemia
  • Congestive heart failure

Rate of Perinatal Transmission

Risk of infection: 17-33%

Maternal Screening

- Routine screening not recommended.

- If maternal exposure or suspect infection, contact Virology lab re: Parvovirus IgG and IgM and/or PCR.

Note: PCR can be performed on blood or amniotic fluid.

Prevention

- Droplet precautions.

- If mother seroconverts in pregnancy, consult Maternal/Fetal specialist for in utero assessment of fetal anemia and if intrauterine blood transfusions are required.