Hygiene and disinfection measures for parvovirus B19 infections.

In order to prevent the further spread of B19V, an advisory has been prepared by experts from the Association for Applied Hygiene (VAH), in collaboration with the "Virus Disinfection" commission of the German Association for the Control of Virus Diseases (DVV) and the Society for Virology (GfV). This advisory is based on a risk assessment and the specific properties of B19V, and it outlines the necessary hygiene measures, including the selection of suitable disinfectants, to be taken in various areas in order to prevent the virus from spreading further. In the domestic setting, fundamental hygiene practices include thorough handwashing, refraining from touching the eyes, mouth, and nose, the use of a medical mask in the absence of physical distancing, and the frequent ventilation of rooms. In a medical setting, for example, the disinfection of surfaces in close proximity to the patient with an active virucidal agent and the use of gloves are also recommended when dealing with infected or potentially infected individuals.