Infectious erythema is a disease caused by the human Parvovirus 19 virus, which may then be called human parvovirus. Infection by this virus is more common in children and adolescents through contact with air secretions released by talking or coughing, for example.
Human parvovirus 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 patches and rashes on the arms, legs and face, and is usually the treatment performed with the goal of relieving symptoms. In the case of virus infection 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 patches on the skin, especially arms, legs and face. Other symptoms indicative of human parvovirus infection are:
- Itchy skin;
- Headache;
- Stomachache;
- Excessive tiredness;
- Paleness around the mouth;
- Malaise;
- Low fever;
- Pain in the joints, especially hands, wrists, knees and ankles, being this most characteristic symptom in adults infected by the virus.
The 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 or extreme temperatures for a long time.
The diagnosis of this disease is made by the physician through the analysis of the symptoms described, and hematological and biochemical tests may be required to confirm the infection.
Parvovirus in pregnancy
In pregnancy, Parvovirus infection can be serious due to the chance of mother-to-child transmission, which can result in changes in fetal development, intrauterine anemia, fetal heart failure and even miscarriage.
Besides pregnancy, this disease can be serious when the person has compromised immune system, because the body can not respond well to the infection, and there is no cure. This can result in changes in blood, joint pain and even anemia.
How is the treatment 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 pain or headache, the doctor may recommend the use of analgesics, for example.
Usually the infection is counteracted by the immune system itself, and it is only necessary to rest and drink enough fluids to facilitate the healing process.
Human parvovirus does not have a vaccine, so the best way to prevent HIV infection is by washing your hands thoroughly and avoiding contact with sick people.
