Key Points

• An outbreak of infections caused by Parvovirus B19 (B19V) affecting all age groups, particularly children, began in May 2023. Its intensity increased in the last quarter of 2023 and appears to have peaked in March 2024, as evidenced by the decline in incidence in April and May.

• A survey of hospital virology laboratories indicates an increase in mother-to-fetus infections in 2023 and 2024, confirming the impact of this outbreak on pregnant women.

• Virological surveillance of B19V infections revealed an increase in the number of diagnoses across the three population groups considered: children under 15, women aged 20–40, and other individuals aged 15 and older. This number declined in April and May. The trend is confirmed by the number of emergency room visits and medical consultations, which also decreased.

• The number of deaths linked to B19V 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 in connection with the virus’s more active circulation. Three deaths were recorded in 2022 and six in 2023.

• In 2024, five deaths were recorded in the first quarter via electronic death certification, all occurring in children. These five deaths occurred in children under one year of age, including four newborns following a congenital infection. No deaths were recorded in April and May.