ComplicationsBy Mayo Clinic staff Parvovirus and anemia
Parvovirus infection can cause serious complications for people
with anemia, a condition in which red blood cells, which carry
oxygen to all the parts of your body, are used up faster than
your bone marrow can replace them. Parvovirus infection in
people with anemia may stop the production of red blood cells
and cause an anemia crisis. People with sickle cell anemia are
at particular risk. Parvovirus can also cause anemia and related
complications in: - The unborn children of women infected with
parvovirus during pregnancy - People who have weakened immune
systems Parvovirus infection in pregnancy Parvovirus infection
during pregnancy sometimes affects red blood cells in the fetus,
causing a severe anemia that could lead to miscarriage or
stillbirth. Fetal risk appears greatest during the first half of
the pregnancy. Treatment options include a blood transfusion
directly to your fetus or giving you medications that pass
through the placenta to your fetus