Bhopal, January 26: Researchers at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) Bhopal have released a significant study identifying Parvovirus B19 (PVB19) - a virus typically associated with mild childhood rashes - as a potential cause of severe neurological complications. In a report published on January 24, the research team warned that while the virus is common, it can lead to life-threatening encephalitis (brain inflammation), particularly in vulnerable populations such as children, the elderly, and those with compromised immune systems.

What Is Parvovirus B19? Understanding┬аPVB19

Parvovirus B19 is a highly contagious human virus that most people encounter at some point in their lives. It is best known for causing "Fifth Disease" or "Slapped Cheek Syndrome" in children. The virus primarily spreads through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes.┬аNipah Virus Cases in West Bengal: India Intensifies Efforts To Contain New Nipah Virus Outbreak; Know Its Symptoms and Treatment.

Parvovirus B19 Can Cause Serious Brain Disease Encephalitis in Some Rare Cases, Says AIIMS Bhopal

While most healthy individuals recover without medical intervention, the AIIMS Bhopal study highlights the virus's "pathogenic versatility." Researchers analysed 14 international studies over three decades, involving over 3,000 patients, to establish a definitive link between the virus and brain infections.

Key Symptoms and Clinical Signs

The symptoms of a Parvovirus B19 infection often progress in stages, though many adults remain asymptomatic. Common signs include:

The "Slapped Cheek" Rash: A bright red rash on the face, most common in children.

Secondary Rashes: A lacy, itchy rash that may appear on the chest, back, or limbs.

Joint Pain: Known as polyarthropathy, this is more common in adults and can mimic rheumatoid arthritis.

Neurological Warning Signs: The AIIMS Bhopal study emphasises that the sudden onset of high fever, severe headache, confusion, or seizures can indicate encephalitis.

Risks and Potential Complications

The virus is particularly dangerous for specific groups due to its "tropism", or affinity, for red blood cell precursors in the bone marrow.

Vulnerable Patients: Children and the elderly are at higher risk of the virus crossing the blood-brain barrier.

Blood Disorders: Individuals with sickle cell disease or thalassemia may experience a "transient aplastic crisis," where the body temporarily stops producing red blood cells.

Pregnancy: Infection during pregnancy can lead to severe fetal anaemia or a condition known as hydrops fetalis.┬аDoes Paracetamol Cause Autism and ADHD Among Children if Taken During Pregnancy?

Treatment and Prevention at AIIMS Bhopal

According to the clinical insights from AIIMS Bhopal, there is currently no specific antiviral drug or vaccine for Parvovirus B19. Treatment is primarily supportive and focuses on symptom management:

Supportive Care: Use of acetaminophen or ibuprofen for fever and joint pain.

Specialised Therapies: For severe cases involving encephalitis or chronic anaemia, doctors may use Intravenous Immunoglobulin (IVIG) therapy to provide the body with necessary antibodies.

Hospitalisation: Patients showing neurological symptoms require immediate medical attention for monitoring and brain-pressure management.

Medical experts at AIIMS Bhopal stress that the best defence is prevention through hygiene. Frequent handwashing and avoiding close contact with individuals showing flu-like symptoms remain the most effective ways to curb the spread of the virus.

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(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jan 26, 2026 02:13 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).