Which mode of transmission is most characteristic for Parvovirus B19?

• A. Blood transfusion
• B. Sexual contact
• C. Respiratory droplets
• D. Fecal-oral

Answer: (C)

Parvovirus B19 is spread primarily through respiratory droplets, meaning inhalation of virus-containing droplets from an infected person’s coughs, sneezes, or saliva. The virus is shed in these secretions during the acute phase of infection, so close contact in households or schools readily facilitates transmission. While it can be transmitted via blood products, that route is not the characteristic way the virus circulates in the community. Fecal-oral spread and sexual contact are not typical routes for this virus. Knowing that respiratory droplets are the main mode helps explain why close household or school exposure is the most common pattern of spread.