Slow virus
Slow Virus
A Slow virus (/sloʊ vaɪrəs/) is a type of virus that has a long incubation period before the symptoms of the diseases they cause are manifested.
Etymology
The term "slow virus" is derived from the characteristic slow progression of the diseases they cause. It was first used in the mid-20th century to describe viruses that cause chronic and persistent infections.
Description
Slow viruses are often associated with diseases that have long incubation periods and progress over a long period of time. These diseases can take months or even years to manifest symptoms. Slow viruses are typically contracted through exposure to an infected individual or contaminated material.
Some examples of diseases caused by slow viruses include HIV/AIDS, Hepatitis C, and certain forms of encephalitis. These viruses are able to evade the immune system and establish long-term infections in the host.
Related Terms
- Virus: A small infectious agent that can only replicate inside the cells of living organisms.
- Incubation period: The time from the moment of exposure to an infectious agent until signs and symptoms of the disease appear.
- HIV/AIDS: A disease of the human immune system caused by the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV).
- Hepatitis C: A viral infection that causes liver inflammation, sometimes leading to serious liver damage.
- Encephalitis: Inflammation of the brain, often due to infection.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Slow virus
- Wikipedia's article - Slow virus
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