“Slapped Cheek” Virus Cases Surge in Ireland
Ireland is grappling with a significant increase in “slapped cheek” virus cases, posing a notable public health concern. The surge, with numbers spiking to levels unseen in years, warrants public awareness. This rise underscores the importance of recognizing the virus and understanding its implications for children and adults alike.
Significant Rise in Cases
Last year, Ireland encountered a substantial uptick in “slapped cheek” virus cases, according to the infectious diseases watchdog. The number of cases was nearly a third higher than the prior peak recorded in 2018. This disease, stemming from parvovirus B19, frequently affects children and causes a distinctive red rash on the cheeks.
The Health Protection Surveillance Centre (HPSC) reported 656 cases of parvovirus B19 detected through DNA. This figure nearly triples the 241 cases detected in 2018. The total for 2024 also markedly exceeded the annual totals observed during the Covid-19 pandemic from 2020-2023, when annual cases ranged from 30 to 61.
“The disease is generally mild but includes symptoms such as high temperature, runny nose, sore throat and headaches.”
—HPSC Representative
However, there was a decrease in detections between the third and fourth quarters of 2024, dropping from 179 to 115. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) indicates that, on average, 10–20% of people infected with parvovirus B19 experience no symptoms (CDC 2024).
Understanding the Virus
More than 45 percent (310) of the cases in 2024 were within the 6-19 age group. Ireland mirrored other European nations in experiencing a surge last year. The HPSC suggests that the virus’s natural epidemic cycle, combined with Covid-related public health measures, contributed to this upsurge.
The Health Service Executive (HSE) notes that a GP visit is typically unnecessary for those who contract the virus. Usually, it clears up within three weeks. Recommendations include resting, drinking fluids, taking paracetamol or ibuprofen, and moisturizing itchy skin.
Parvovirus B19 can affect all age groups, yet children are more susceptible. Transmission is more likely within households than in occupational or educational settings. In rare instances, infection during pregnancy can harm the developing foetus, although immunity is common, especially among women working with children. Serious illness can also occur in those with chronic red blood cell disorders or weakened immune systems.
According to the HSE, most people are unaware they have the virus until the rash appears, at which point it is no longer contagious, making it challenging to control the spread of the disease. The HPSC characterizes it as a seasonal disease, with heightened prevalence during late spring and early summer.
