Filoviridae

Filoviridae is a family of viruses that are known to cause severe hemorrhagic fevers in humans and non-human primates. The most well-known members of this family are the Ebola virus and the Marburg virus.

Overview

Filoviridae is a family of viruses in the order Mononegavirales. They are enveloped, non-segmented, negative-sense RNA viruses. The family includes three genera: Cuevavirus, Ebolavirus, and Marburgvirus. The viruses in this family are known to cause severe hemorrhagic fevers in humans and non-human primates.

Structure

Filoviruses are filamentous or thread-like in shape, which is where they get their name. They have a unique structure among viruses, with a long, filamentous shape that is often coiled, looped, or branched. The virions (virus particles) are enveloped and contain a single molecule of linear, negative-sense RNA.

Pathogenesis

Filoviruses are highly pathogenic and are known to cause severe disease in humans and non-human primates. The most well-known members of this family, the Ebola virus and the Marburg virus, cause severe hemorrhagic fevers characterized by high fever, bleeding, and organ failure. The viruses are transmitted to humans from wild animals and spread in the human population through human-to-human transmission.

Treatment and Prevention

There is currently no specific treatment for filovirus infections. Supportive care, including rehydration and treatment of specific symptoms, can improve survival. Prevention involves avoiding contact with infected individuals and animals, and proper infection control practices in healthcare settings.

See Also

• Ebola virus disease
• Marburg virus disease
• Viral hemorrhagic fever

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