Hygiene and disinfection measures for parvovirus B19 infections

In 2024, there has been a notable surge in the incidence of infections with parvovirus B19 (B19V). This development presents significant challenges, particularly for pregnant women, daycare centers, and medical facilities with vulnerable patients.

B19V is transmitted primarily by droplet infection, directly and indirectly through contaminated surfaces. It is highly contagious and can have serious health consequences for at-risk groups, especially for pregnant women and immunocompromised individuals. There is not yet much data available on the specific tenacity/replication capacity of B19V, which is why empirical values from animal parvoviruses regarding sensitivity to disinfectants are used.

In order to prevent the further spread of B19V, an advisory has been prepared by experts from the Association for Applied Hygiene (VAH), in collaboration with the "Virus Disinfection" commission of the German Association for the Control of Virus Diseases (DVV) and the Society for Virology (GfV). This advisory is based on a risk assessment and the specific properties of B19V, and it outlines the necessary hygiene measures, including the selection of suitable disinfectants, to be taken in various areas in order to prevent the virus from spreading further. In the domestic setting, fundamental hygiene practices include thorough handwashing, refraining from touching the eyes, mouth, and nose, the use of a medical mask in the absence of physical distancing, and the frequent ventilation of rooms. In a medical setting, for example, the disinfection of surfaces in close proximity to the patient with an active virucidal agent and the use of gloves are also recommended when dealing with infected or potentially infected individuals.