Key Points

• An outbreak of Parvovirus B19 infections affecting all age groups, particularly children, began in May 2023. Its intensity increased in the last quarter of 2023 and continues to rise in 2024, with a peak yet to be reached in March.

• Some perinatal units report an increase in miscarriages and fetal deaths linked to Parvovirus B19 infection. Laboratory data show positive tests for Parvovirus B19 in amniotic fluid samples. These two factors could not be quantified at the national level.

• The number of cases of severe Parvovirus B19 infections appears to be increasing, as reported to Santé publique France by some emergency room physicians and intensive care specialists. This data could not be quantified.

• Virological surveillance of Parvovirus B19 infections has revealed an increase in the number of diagnoses made in the three population groups considered: children under 15 years of age, women aged 20–40, and other individuals aged 15 or older.

• Emergency department data show a slight increase in hospitalizations following visits for suspected Parvovirus B19 infection, but the numbers remain very low.

• The number of deaths linked to Parvovirus B19 infection averaged 1.8 per year in the pre-pandemic period and primarily affected adults. Although this number remains low and consistent with the mild severity of the infection, it warrants monitoring as it has increased significantly since 2022 due to more active viral circulation and is affecting children more, who account for all 5 deaths already recorded for the year 2024 via electronic death certification. These 5 deaths occurred in children under one year of age, including 4 newborns following a congenital infection.