Epidemiology and Rare Clinical Presentations of Parvovirus B19 During the 2024 Outbreak in Veneto, Italy

The recent increase in parvovirus B19 (B19V) infections across Europe has underscored the need for enhanced surveillance. In Italy, where B19V surveillance is not mandated nationally, this study aimed to assess the epidemiological and clinical characteristics of the outbreak in the Veneto Region by implementing mandatory disease notification since May 2024 and collecting clinical data on confirmed cases. The outbreak disproportionately affected young children, with the highest incidence in the 1-5 and 6-11 age groups. The increase in cases within the 1-5 year age group was predictive of an increase in cases in other age groups. Hospitalisation was required in a small percentage of cases, but severe complications, including myocarditis, pericarditis, and miscarriage, were observed, underscoring the potential severity of B19V infection. During the surveillance period, one death was also recorded following cardiac and neurological complications in a patient without prior risk factors. The presence of concurrent pathologies, particularly haematological disorders, was associated with increased disease severity. This study emphasises the critical need for improved awareness of B19V, particularly in high-risk populations, and highlights the importance of early warning when cases start rising among 1-5-year-olds. The feasibility of implementing a systematic and potentially EU-wide surveillance system for B19V should be assessed.