Changing epidemiology of parvovirus B19 in the Netherlands since 1990, including its re-emergence after the COVID-19 pandemic
Anne Russcher1, Michiel van Boven23, Elisa Benincà2, E J T Joanne Verweij4, Marijke W A Molenaar-de Backer5, Hans L Zaaijer5, Ann C T M Vossen6, Aloys C M Kroes6
Historically, parvovirus B19 exhibits a cyclical pattern with annual peaks and larger outbreaks occurring approximately every four years. Data from various regions across Europe have indicated that these cycles have been somewhat disrupted in recent years. The aim of this study was to describe the regular seasonal variation of B19 infections in the Netherlands over the past three decades and to analyze the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on B19 epidemiology.
There was a period of low incidence during the COVID-19 pandemic, with blood bank data showing that infections were virtually absent between 2020 and 2022. As of 2023, B19 infections have re-emerged with substantial increases in the detection of parvovirus B19. It is believed that the COVID-19 pandemic led to significant disruptions in the transmission of many respiratory viruses. Social distancing, lockdowns, and other preventive measures reduced the transmission of B19, leading to low incidence during this period. With a significant drop in B19 infections during the pandemic, immunity levels in the population decreased. This reduction in herd immunity may have facilitated the rebound of the virus as restrictions eased.
At the conclusion of this study, an ongoing rise in B19 in the Netherlands was observed, consistent with recent studies from France and Israel. This resurgence has implications for public health, especially concerning vulnerable populations such as pregnant women. Although B19 is considered benign in healthy children, infection during pregnancy can lead to severe complications such as fetal hydrops, raising concerns about a potential increased incidence of severe fetal outcomes. Therefore, effective monitoring, public health measures, and preparedness are essential to address these challenges and mitigate the impact of future outbreaks.
References:
Russcher, A., van Boven, M., Benincà, E., Verweij, E. J. T. J., Molenaar-de Backer, M. W. A., Zaaijer, H. L., Vossen, A. C. T. M., & Kroes, A. C. M. (2024). Changing epidemiology of parvovirus B19 in the Netherlands since 1990, including its re-emergence after the COVID-19 pandemic. Scientific reports, 14(1), 9630. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-024-59582-7
Changing-epidemiology-of-parvovirus-B19-in-the-Netherlands-since-1990-including-its-re-emergence-after-the-COVID-19-pandemic
