Alphavirus
Alphavirus
Alphavirus (/ælfəˈvaɪrəs/) is a genus of viruses in the family Togaviridae. They are enveloped, positive-strand RNA viruses primarily transmitted by arthropods, specifically mosquitoes.
Etymology
The term "Alphavirus" is derived from the first letter of the Greek alphabet, alpha (α), indicating its position as the first genus within the family Togaviridae.
Transmission
Alphaviruses are primarily transmitted through the bite of an infected mosquito. Some species of mosquitoes known to transmit alphaviruses include Aedes, Culex, and Anopheles species.
Diseases
Alphaviruses are known to cause several diseases in humans and animals, including Chikungunya, Ross River fever, Eastern equine encephalitis, and Western equine encephalitis.
Treatment and Prevention
There are currently no specific antiviral treatments for diseases caused by alphaviruses. Management of symptoms, such as pain and fever, is the primary treatment strategy. Prevention strategies include controlling mosquito populations and avoiding mosquito bites.
Related Terms
- Togaviridae: The family of viruses to which alphaviruses belong.
- Arbovirus: A term used to describe viruses transmitted by arthropods, such as mosquitoes and ticks.
- Encephalitis: Inflammation of the brain, a common symptom of many alphavirus infections.
- Vector (epidemiology): An organism, typically a biting insect or tick, that transmits a disease or parasite from one animal or plant to another.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Alphavirus
- Wikipedia's article - Alphavirus
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