Parvovirus

Parvovirus, one of a group of extremely small viruses that contain a single strand of DNA and that cause various diseases in mammals, including humans (see Virus). Human parvovirus (HPV) was found in 1984 to be the cause of a childhood rash called fifth disease; it has also been linked to cases of rheumatoid arthritis. Fetal infection can cause hydrops fetalis, or spontaneous abortion. In combination with adenoviruses, HPV can cause eye inflammations and upper respiratory tract distress. In dogs, canine parvovirus causes infections of the intestinal tract that are often fatal; a vaccine is available. Parvoviruses can also fatally afflict cattle, pigs, and other animals.