Parvovirus B19 Antibody IgM

As the name suggests, the Parvovirus B19 Antibody IgM Test is used to detect the presence of the Parvovirus B19 infection. It is a contagious childhood illness that can further cause the Fifth disease. This disease is characterized by a distinctive face rash known as the "slapped cheek" rash.

The impact of the parvovirus is generally mild on kids and requires minimal treatment. However, the infection can get quite severe for some adults. The risk is maximum for pregnant women with the infection, since it can lead to detrimental complications for the fetus. Furthermore, the symptoms might worsen for people with a compromised immune system or people with specific types of Anaemia.

You must get the treatment for the disease before it progresses beyond your control. The following symptoms mark the onset of the disease:

• Low-grade fever
• Headache 
• Fatigue 
• Swollen joints 
• Arthritis 
• Gloves and socks syndrome 
• Fifth disease (slapped cheek)
• Painful joints

Post the onset of these early symptoms; you might start noticing bright red rashes on their cheeks. This rash will generally appear on both cheeks, and it will start spreading all over your body. This means that your child has fifth disease, and it is characterized by the following symptoms:

• The appearance of the "slapped cheek" rash. You will start seeing a bright pink or red rash on your kid's chin and cheeks. The above symptoms are rarely seen in adults. 
• The appearance of a raised "lacy" rash on your arms, legs, and torso.

If you or your kid have the following symptoms, get the Parvovirus B19 Antibody IgM Test done now. But before getting the test done and diagnosing the infection, your healthcare provider might ask you a couple of questions. Here is a list of questions you must be prepared for:

• What is the extent of your symptoms?
• Have you been immunocompromised?
• Have you been in contact with anyone that has the fifth disease?
• Have you been in contact with anyone that has the Parvovirus B19 infection?
• What medications are you currently?

Once you answer these questions, your healthcare provider can gauge the situation better. 
However, you should know that the above infection has no vaccine or cure. It will subside eventually, but there is a chance it might cause complications. So here are some preventive measures you can take to avoid getting infected:

• Cover your mouth while coughing or sneezing. 
• Stay home if you are infected 
• Avoid contact with infected individuals 
• Wash your hands with soap and water frequently
• Do not touch your eyes, mouth, or nose

Lastly, the Parvovirus B19 infection test cost is affordable, and you will receive the results within 48 hours. If you test positive, then here are some treatment options you can leverage to alleviate the symptoms:

• Consume Acetaminophen if you want to deal with the headache and fever. 
• Keep drinking fluids constantly and keep yourself well rested.
• Consume nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (Ibuprofen) for joint swelling and pain.