COUNCIL chiefs have issued a health notice to employees informing them of a rare virus contracted by one of their colleagues.

Darlington Borough Council has informed its staff that one of its employees has Parvovirus B19.

The virus commonly infects humans and is usually spread via people's respiratory system.

The most common illness caused by the virus is Fifth Disease, a mild rash that occurs most often in children, which typically involves a "slapped cheek" rash on the face and a lacy red rash on the trunk and limbs.

Adults with the virus can also experience joint pain, or swelling. The symptoms usually disappear in a week or two.

According to the Centres for Disease Control website, Fifth Disease is usually a mild illness that disappears without treatment in most children and adults.

It also states that pet dogs or cats may be immunised against parvovirus, but these are animal parvoviruses that do not infect humans.

The council is advising anyone less than 20 weeks pregnant, or who has a blood disorder and has come into contact with someone who has Fifth Disease, to contact their GP or midwife.