Variola virus
Variola virus
Variola virus (pronunciation: və-ˈrī-ə-lə ˈvī-rəs) is the causative agent of smallpox, a highly infectious and often fatal disease. The virus is a member of the Orthopoxvirus genus and the Poxviridae family.
Etymology
The term "Variola" comes from the Latin word "varius," meaning "spotted," or "varus," meaning "pimple." The term was used to describe the skin eruptions that are a characteristic symptom of the disease.
Structure and Genome
The Variola virus is a large, complex, enveloped virus. The virus has a linear, double-stranded DNA genome approximately 186 kilobase pairs in length, which encodes approximately 200 proteins.
Pathogenesis and Clinical Features
Infection with the Variola virus causes smallpox, a disease characterized by fever, malaise, and a rash of vesicular pustules. The virus is transmitted from person to person, primarily through respiratory droplets.
Prevention and Treatment
The smallpox vaccine, developed by Edward Jenner in 1796, is highly effective in preventing infection. Smallpox was declared eradicated in 1980 by the World Health Organization (WHO), following a global immunization campaign.
There is currently no specific treatment for smallpox. Management of the disease is primarily supportive, including hydration and pain relief.
Related Terms
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Variola virus
- Wikipedia's article - Variola virus
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