Poxvirus

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Poxvirus

Poxvirus (/pɒksˈvaɪrəs/; from the Latin pox, meaning "pustule") is a family of viruses known as Poxviridae. They are DNA viruses that infect vertebrates, including humans.

Etymology

The term "poxvirus" is derived from the Latin pox, meaning "pustule". The suffix "-virus" is from the Latin virus, meaning "poison" or "slime".

Classification

Poxviruses are classified into two subfamilies: Chordopoxvirinae, which infect vertebrates, and Entomopoxvirinae, which infect insects.

Structure

Poxviruses are large, complex viruses with a linear, double-stranded DNA genome. They have a unique morphology, with a brick or oval shape and a complex internal structure.

Replication

Poxvirus replication occurs entirely in the cytoplasm of the host cell, a unique feature among DNA viruses.

Diseases

Poxviruses are responsible for a variety of diseases in humans and animals. The most well-known is smallpox, caused by the variola virus. Other diseases caused by poxviruses include cowpox, monkeypox, and molluscum contagiosum.

Treatment and Prevention

There is no specific treatment for poxvirus infections. Prevention is primarily through vaccination, such as the smallpox vaccine.

Related Terms

  • Virus: A small infectious agent that can only replicate inside the living cells of an organism.
  • DNA virus: A virus that has DNA as its genetic material and replicates using a DNA-dependent DNA polymerase.
  • Smallpox: An infectious disease caused by one of two virus variants, Variola major and Variola minor.
  • Vaccination: The administration of a vaccine to help the immune system develop protection from a disease.

External links

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