Myxoma virus

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Myxoma virus

Myxoma virus (pronounced: mix-oh-ma virus) is a virus that causes myxomatosis, a severe disease in rabbits. It belongs to the Poxviridae family and the Leporipoxvirus genus. The virus is primarily spread through direct contact and biting insects such as mosquitoes and fleas.

Etymology

The term "myxoma" comes from the Greek words "muxa," meaning mucus, and "-oma," a suffix used in medical terminology to indicate a tumor or growth. The virus was named for the mucous-like tumors it causes in infected rabbits.

Transmission

Myxoma virus is transmitted through direct contact between rabbits or by biting insects. The virus can survive for a short time in the environment, but it is primarily spread through direct contact or insect vectors.

Symptoms

Infected rabbits may exhibit a variety of symptoms, including swelling and nodules on the skin, fever, lethargy, and difficulty breathing. In severe cases, the disease can cause death.

Treatment

There is no specific treatment for myxomatosis. Supportive care, including hydration and pain management, may help to alleviate some symptoms. Prevention is the most effective method of control, and includes measures such as insect control and vaccination.

Related Terms

  • Poxviridae: The family of viruses to which the myxoma virus belongs.
  • Leporipoxvirus: The genus of viruses to which the myxoma virus belongs.
  • Myxomatosis: The disease caused by the myxoma virus.
  • Rabbit: The primary host of the myxoma virus.
  • Mosquito: One of the insect vectors that can transmit the myxoma virus.
  • Flea: Another insect vector that can transmit the myxoma virus.

External links

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