How does parvovirus B-19 cause disease?
Parvovirus B19 is transmitted from person-to-person by direct contact or by contaminated secretions of the nose and the mouth. Parvovirus B19 infects the lining of the nose and the upper respiratory tract. Then, it is spread through the blood throughout the body, which causes the rash. The virus also infects the bone marrow cells that are responsible for producing new red blood cells. This particular characteristic may result in complications in those persons who have an underlying anemia or other blood disorder. top What are the common findings? Fifth Disease can be divided into four phases: 1) the incubation phase, 2) the prodromal phase, 3) the rash phase, and 4) the recovery phase. The incubation phase typically lasts 8 to 12 days after exposure to the virus and does not have any symptoms. During the prodromal phase, the symptoms are mild and include a headache, a low-grade fever, fatigue, and a sore throat. These symptoms usually last for a few days and then resolve. The rash that
