Print DiagnosisAbout half of adults are immune to parvovirus infection, most likely because of a previous, unnoticed childhood infection. People who are at risk of severe parvovirus complications might benefit from blood tests that can help determine if they're immune to parvovirus or if they've recently become infected. TreatmentFor an uncomplicated parvovirus infection, self-care treatment at home is generally sufficient. People with severe anemia may need to stay in the hospital and receive blood transfusions. Those with weakened immune systems may receive antibodies, via immune globulin injections, to treat the infection.More InformationBlood transfusion Request an appointment Lifestyle and home remediesSelf-care treatment is aimed primarily at relieving signs and symptoms and easing any discomfort. Make sure you or your child gets plenty of rest and drinks lots of fluids. Acetaminophen (Tylenol, others) may help to relieve temperatures of more than 102 F (39 C) or minor aches and pains. Use caution when giving aspirin to children or teenagers. Though aspirin is approved for use in children older than age 3, children and teenagers recovering from chickenpox or flu-like symptoms should never take aspirin. This is because aspirin has been linked to Reye's syndrome, a rare but potentially life-threatening condition, in such children. It's impractical and unnecessary to isolate your sick child. You won't know your child has parvovirus infection until the rash appears, and by that time, your child is no longer contagious. Preparing for your appointmentMost people with parvovirus infection don't seek medical attention. You may want to talk to your family doctor if you or your child has been exposed to parvovirus and has an underlying condition that increases the risk of complications. What you can doBefore the appointment, you may want to write a list that includes: When and how you or your child was exposed to parvovirus A detailed description of symptoms Medical problems that run in your family Medical problems you or your child has had in the past All the drugs and supplements you or your child takes What to expect from your doctorDuring the physical examination, your doctor will pay special attention to any skin rashes. If you're a female past puberty, your doctor may ask if there's any chance you're pregnant. By Mayo Clinic Staff Request an appointment Symptoms & causes April 19, 2022 Print Share on: FacebookTwitter Show references Jordan JA. Microbiology, epidemiology, and pathogenesis of parvovirus B19 infection. https://www.uptodate.com/contents/search. Accessed Dec. 11, 2019. Jordon JA. Clinical manifestations and diagnosis of parvovirus 19 infection. https://www.uptodate.com/contents/search. Accessed Dec. 11, 2019. About parvovirus B19. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/parvovirusb19/about-parvovirus.html. Accessed Dec. 11, 2019. Fifth disease. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/parvovirusb19/fifth-disease.html. Accessed Dec. 11, 2019. Pregnancy and fifth disease. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/parvovirusb19/pregnancy.html. Accessed Dec. 11, 2019. Riley LE, et al. Parvovirus B19 infection during pregnancy. https://www.uptodate.com/contents/search. Accessed Dec. 11, 2019. Jordon JA. Treatment and prevention of parvovirus B19 infection. https://www.uptodate.com/contents/search. Accessed Dec. 11, 2019. AskMayoExpert. Parvovirus-associated arthritis. Mayo Clinic; 2019. AAP Committee on Infectious Diseases. Recommendations for prevention and control of influenza in children, 2017-2018. Pediatrics. 2017; doi:10.1542/peds.2017-2550. Sullivan JE, et al. Clinical report — Fever and antipyretic use in children. Pediatrics. 2011; doi:10.1542/peds.2010-3852. Reaffirmed 2016. Labeling of drug preparations containing salicylates. Electronic Code of Federal Regulations. https://www.ecfr.gov/cgi-bin/text-idx?SID=76be002fc0488562bf61609b21a6b11e&mc=true&node=se21.4.201_1314&rgn=div8. Accessed Feb. 22, 2018. Renaud DL (expert opinion). Mayo Clinic. Feb. 27, 2018. Related Parvovirus infection face rash Associated Procedures Blood transfusion Products & Services Book: Mayo Clinic Family Health Book, 5th Edition Newsletter: Mayo Clinic Health Letter — Digital Edition Show more products and services from Mayo Clinic Parvovirus infectionSymptoms & causesDiagnosis & treatment Advertisement Mayo Clinic does not endorse companies or products. Advertising revenue supports our not-for-profit mission. Advertising & Sponsorship Policy Opportunities Ad Choices Mayo Clinic Press Check out these best-sellers and special offers on books and newsletters from Mayo Clinic Press. 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