Topic
human virus
Parvovirus B19 is a human virus most known for causing disease in children, though it can also affect adults. It is the classic cause of the childhood rash called fifth disease or erythema infectiosum. The virus's name is derived from Latin parvum, meaning 'small', as B19 ranks among the smallest DNA viruses, measuring only 23–26 nm in diameter. The virus was discovered by chance in 1975 by Australian virologist Yvonne Cossart. The name B19 originated from the coding of a serum sample, number 19 in panel B.
