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Parvovirus B19 outbreak in a developmental center
G S Lohiya1, K Stewart, K Perot
1Fairview Developmental Center, Costa Mesa, CA 92626, USA.
American Journal of Infection Control
|December 1, 1995
Summary
Parvovirus B19 infection was detected in 27% of employees serving individuals with developmental disabilities. Some experienced prolonged joint pain, highlighting the need for infection control.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Virology
- Occupational Health
Background:
- Parvovirus B19 is a common virus that can cause illness.
- Employees in healthcare settings may be at risk of exposure.
- Understanding infection rates is crucial for public health.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the prevalence of parvovirus B19 infection among employees serving developmentally disabled persons.
- To identify potential health consequences, such as arthropathy.
- To inform infection control strategies.
Main Methods:
- Serum samples were collected from 49 employees.
- Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was used to detect parvovirus B19 IgM antibodies.
- Clinical symptoms, including polyarthropathy, were assessed.
Main Results:
- Parvovirus B19 IgM antibodies were detected in 13 out of 49 employees (27%).
- Two infected employees developed severe peripheral symmetric polyarthropathy lasting over six months.
- The study identified a significant prevalence of infection in this occupational group.
Conclusions:
- A notable proportion of employees working with developmentally disabled individuals are infected with parvovirus B19.
- Parvovirus B19 infection can lead to chronic joint complications.
- Implementing targeted infection control measures is essential to protect healthcare workers.