Measles morbillivirus
Measles morbillivirus
Measles morbillivirus (pronunciation: MEE-zuhls mor-BIL-uh-vy-rus) is the virus responsible for causing measles, a highly contagious infectious disease that primarily affects children.
Etymology
The term "measles" comes from the Middle English "maselen" meaning "many little spots", referring to the characteristic rash. The term "morbillivirus" is derived from the Latin "morbilli" meaning "little diseases", a term used in the past to describe measles and similar diseases.
Description
Measles morbillivirus is a single-stranded, negative-sense, enveloped RNA virus of the genus Morbillivirus within the family Paramyxoviridae. It is primarily transmitted through respiratory droplets and direct contact with nasal or throat secretions of infected individuals.
Symptoms
The initial symptoms of infection with measles morbillivirus include high fever, cough, runny nose, and red, watery eyes. A few days after these symptoms begin, a rash of tiny, red spots breaks out, usually starting at the head and spreading to the rest of the body.
Prevention and Treatment
Prevention of measles is primarily through vaccination with the MMR vaccine, which also protects against mumps and rubella. Treatment is supportive, aimed at relieving symptoms and preventing complications.
Related Terms
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Measles morbillivirus
- Wikipedia's article - Measles morbillivirus
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