Coxsackie A virus

Coxsackie A virus is a type of enterovirus that is part of the Picornaviridae family. It is named after the town of Coxsackie, New York, where it was first discovered. The virus is responsible for a variety of illnesses, including hand, foot, and mouth disease, herpangina, and pleurodynia.

Classification

Coxsackie A virus is one of the two types of Coxsackieviruses, the other being Coxsackie B virus. There are 23 serotypes of Coxsackie A virus, each identified by a different number. The most well-known serotype is Coxsackie A16, which is the primary cause of hand, foot, and mouth disease.

Transmission

Coxsackie A virus is primarily transmitted through the fecal-oral route, but can also be spread through respiratory droplets. The virus can survive on surfaces for several days, making it highly contagious.

Symptoms and Diseases

Coxsackie A virus can cause a range of symptoms, depending on the specific serotype and the individual's immune response. Common symptoms include fever, sore throat, and rash. The virus is known to cause several diseases, including:

• Hand, foot, and mouth disease: This is a common childhood illness characterized by sores in the mouth and a rash on the hands and feet. It is most often caused by Coxsackie A16.
• Herpangina: This is an illness characterized by small, blister-like sores in the back of the throat. It is often caused by Coxsackie A viruses.
• Pleurodynia: Also known as Bornholm disease, this is a condition characterized by severe chest and abdominal pain. It is often caused by Coxsackie A viruses.

Prevention and Treatment

There is currently no vaccine for Coxsackie A virus. Prevention strategies include good hygiene practices, such as regular hand washing, disinfecting surfaces, and avoiding close contact with infected individuals. Treatment is typically supportive, focusing on relieving symptoms and supporting the immune system.

See Also

• Coxsackie B virus
• Enterovirus
• Hand, foot, and mouth disease
• Herpangina
• Pleurodynia