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.