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Symptoms
By Mayo Clinic staff
Early phase of parvovirus infection
Most children with parvovirus infection feel well. Some develop mild, cold-like signs and symptoms early in the illness, and these initial parvovirus symptoms typically last five to 10 days. They may include:
- Sore throat
- Slight fever
- Upset stomach
- Headache
- Fatigue
- Itching
Following phases
- Several days later, a distinctive bright red facial rash usually appears on both cheeks.
- Eventually, the rash may extend to the arms, trunk, thighs and buttocks, where the rash has a pink, lacy, slightly raised appearance.
Generally, the rash occurs near the end of the illness. It's possible to mistake the rash for other viral rashes or a medicine-related rash. Infants and toddlers develop the same signs and symptoms as do school-age children. The rash may come and go for up to three weeks, becoming more visible when a child is exposed to extreme temperatures or spends time in the sun.
In adults
In adults, the most prominent symptom of parvovirus infection is joint soreness (arthralgia), lasting days to weeks. Joints most commonly affected are the hands, wrists, knees and ankles.
Asymptomatic parvovirus infection
Parvovirus infection can also occur without any signs or symptoms in either children or adults.
