Human parvovirus B19 research concerning the safety of blood and plasma derivatives in China

Human parvovirus B19 (B19V) is a common human pathogen which is associated with a broad spectrum of clinical manifestations. Since B19V can be transmitted via blood and plasma derivatives, it has been considered to pose great risk in transfusion safety. Since the early 21st century, European Pharmacopoeia, the Plasma Protein Therapeutics Association and U.S. Food and Drug Administration have proposed a list of guidelines to reduce the risk of B19V transmission by plasma derivatives. In terms of blood, some countries implement management measures on B19V to maximize the safety of blood transfusion. In China, no related documentation for monitoring B19V has been issued. The aim of this review is to discuss the risk for B19V transmission through blood and plasma derivatives in China. The issues raised with the intention to contribute to further development of risk management measures.