Cases of 'slapped cheek' disease, a highly contagious disease that commonly affects kids and pregnant women, have witnessed an uptick across the US in recent times. The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has issued a health advisory on Tuesday to take adequate preventive measures to curb the spread of the disease caused by Parvovirus.
The 'slapped cheek' refers to a distinctive facial rash which leads to rosy cheeks in those affected. It is caused by Parvovirus B19, also called fifth disease. While in children and healthy adults, the symptoms are usually mild, in case of pregnant women or vulnerable population, it can cause severe disease.
