Enterovirus D: Difference between revisions

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Enterovirus D
{{short description|Overview of Enterovirus D68}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=October 2023}}


Enterovirus D is a genus of viruses within the family [[Picornaviridae]], which are small, non-enveloped viruses with a single-stranded RNA genome. This genus is part of the larger group of enteroviruses, which are known to cause a variety of diseases in humans and animals. Enterovirus D is of particular interest due to its association with severe respiratory illnesses and neurological conditions.
==Overview==
[[Enterovirus D68]] (EV-D68) is a member of the [[Picornaviridae]] family, which includes other notable viruses such as [[poliovirus]] and [[rhinovirus]]. EV-D68 is a non-enveloped, positive-sense [[single-stranded RNA virus]] that primarily affects the respiratory system. It was first identified in 1962 in California, United States.


== Virology ==
==Virology==
EV-D68 is classified within the species [[Enterovirus D]], which is part of the genus [[Enterovirus]]. The virus is characterized by its small, icosahedral structure and its ability to survive in acidic environments, a common trait among enteroviruses. The genome of EV-D68 is approximately 7,500 nucleotides in length and encodes a single polyprotein that is cleaved into structural and non-structural proteins.


Enterovirus D viruses are characterized by their small size, approximately 30 nm in diameter, and their icosahedral capsid structure. The genome is a positive-sense single-stranded RNA, approximately 7,500 nucleotides in length. The genome encodes a single polyprotein that is cleaved into structural and non-structural proteins. The structural proteins form the viral capsid, while the non-structural proteins are involved in viral replication and assembly.
==Transmission==
The primary mode of transmission for EV-D68 is through respiratory secretions, such as saliva, nasal mucus, or sputum. The virus can spread from person to person via close contact, coughing, or sneezing. It can also be transmitted by touching surfaces contaminated with the virus and then touching the face.


=== Species and Serotypes ===
==Clinical Manifestations==
EV-D68 infections can range from mild respiratory illness to severe respiratory distress. Common symptoms include [[fever]], [[runny nose]], [[sneezing]], [[cough]], and [[muscle aches]]. In severe cases, particularly in children and individuals with asthma, EV-D68 can lead to [[wheezing]] and difficulty breathing.


The Enterovirus D genus includes several species, with Enterovirus D68 (EV-D68) being the most well-known due to its association with outbreaks of respiratory illness. Other serotypes within this genus have been identified, but EV-D68 remains the most clinically significant.
==Epidemiology==
EV-D68 has been associated with outbreaks of respiratory illness worldwide. Notably, in 2014, a large outbreak occurred in the United States, leading to increased hospitalizations and cases of severe respiratory illness. The virus tends to circulate in late summer and early fall, similar to other enteroviruses.


== Epidemiology ==
==Prevention and Control==
Currently, there is no specific antiviral treatment or vaccine for EV-D68. Preventive measures include practicing good hand hygiene, avoiding close contact with infected individuals, and cleaning frequently touched surfaces. Public health measures during outbreaks focus on surveillance and supportive care for affected individuals.


Enterovirus D68 was first identified in 1962 in California, but it remained relatively obscure until outbreaks in the 21st century highlighted its potential to cause severe respiratory illness. The virus is transmitted primarily through respiratory droplets, but it can also spread via contact with contaminated surfaces.
==Research==
Ongoing research aims to better understand the pathogenesis of EV-D68, its epidemiology, and potential therapeutic interventions. Studies are also exploring the genetic diversity of the virus and its evolution over time.


Outbreaks of EV-D68 have been reported worldwide, with notable increases in cases during the late summer and early fall. The virus can cause mild to severe respiratory illness, and in some cases, it has been associated with acute flaccid myelitis (AFM), a polio-like syndrome that results in muscle weakness and paralysis.
==Images==
 
[[File:Ev-d68-photo-1.jpg|thumb|right|Electron micrograph of Enterovirus D68]]
== Clinical Manifestations ==
 
The clinical presentation of Enterovirus D infections can vary widely. Common symptoms include:
 
* Mild respiratory symptoms such as cough, runny nose, and fever.
* Severe respiratory illness, particularly in children and individuals with asthma.
* Neurological symptoms, including acute flaccid myelitis, which is characterized by sudden onset of limb weakness.
 
== Diagnosis ==
 
Diagnosis of Enterovirus D infections is typically confirmed through laboratory testing. Methods include:
 
* '''RT-PCR (Reverse Transcription Polymerase Chain Reaction):''' This is the most common method for detecting enterovirus RNA in respiratory specimens.
* '''Viral Culture:''' Although less commonly used, viral culture can be performed to isolate the virus.
* '''Serology:''' Detection of specific antibodies can be used to confirm recent infection.
 
== Treatment and Prevention ==
 
There is no specific antiviral treatment for Enterovirus D infections. Management is primarily supportive, focusing on relieving symptoms and maintaining respiratory function. In severe cases, hospitalization and supportive care, including mechanical ventilation, may be necessary.
 
Preventive measures include:
 
* Good hand hygiene and respiratory etiquette.
* Avoiding close contact with infected individuals.
* Disinfecting frequently touched surfaces.
 
== Research and Future Directions ==
 
Ongoing research is focused on understanding the pathogenesis of Enterovirus D infections and developing vaccines or antiviral therapies. The link between EV-D68 and acute flaccid myelitis is an area of active investigation.
 
== Also see ==


==Related pages==
* [[Enterovirus]]
* [[Enterovirus]]
* [[Picornaviridae]]
* [[Picornaviridae]]
* [[Acute flaccid myelitis]]
* [[Respiratory illness]]
* [[Respiratory illness]]
 
* [[Viral infection]]
{{Virus-stub}}


[[Category:Enteroviruses]]
[[Category:Enteroviruses]]
[[Category:Picornaviridae]]
[[Category:Viral respiratory tract infections]]
[[Category:Viral respiratory tract infections]]

Latest revision as of 11:19, 15 February 2025

Overview of Enterovirus D68



Overview[edit]

Enterovirus D68 (EV-D68) is a member of the Picornaviridae family, which includes other notable viruses such as poliovirus and rhinovirus. EV-D68 is a non-enveloped, positive-sense single-stranded RNA virus that primarily affects the respiratory system. It was first identified in 1962 in California, United States.

Virology[edit]

EV-D68 is classified within the species Enterovirus D, which is part of the genus Enterovirus. The virus is characterized by its small, icosahedral structure and its ability to survive in acidic environments, a common trait among enteroviruses. The genome of EV-D68 is approximately 7,500 nucleotides in length and encodes a single polyprotein that is cleaved into structural and non-structural proteins.

Transmission[edit]

The primary mode of transmission for EV-D68 is through respiratory secretions, such as saliva, nasal mucus, or sputum. The virus can spread from person to person via close contact, coughing, or sneezing. It can also be transmitted by touching surfaces contaminated with the virus and then touching the face.

Clinical Manifestations[edit]

EV-D68 infections can range from mild respiratory illness to severe respiratory distress. Common symptoms include fever, runny nose, sneezing, cough, and muscle aches. In severe cases, particularly in children and individuals with asthma, EV-D68 can lead to wheezing and difficulty breathing.

Epidemiology[edit]

EV-D68 has been associated with outbreaks of respiratory illness worldwide. Notably, in 2014, a large outbreak occurred in the United States, leading to increased hospitalizations and cases of severe respiratory illness. The virus tends to circulate in late summer and early fall, similar to other enteroviruses.

Prevention and Control[edit]

Currently, there is no specific antiviral treatment or vaccine for EV-D68. Preventive measures include practicing good hand hygiene, avoiding close contact with infected individuals, and cleaning frequently touched surfaces. Public health measures during outbreaks focus on surveillance and supportive care for affected individuals.

Research[edit]

Ongoing research aims to better understand the pathogenesis of EV-D68, its epidemiology, and potential therapeutic interventions. Studies are also exploring the genetic diversity of the virus and its evolution over time.

Images[edit]

Electron micrograph of Enterovirus D68

Related pages[edit]