Coxsackievirus

Coxsackievirus is a type of enterovirus that is part of the Picornaviridae family. Named after the town of Coxsackie, New York, where it was first isolated, coxsackieviruses are non-enveloped, positive-sense, single-stranded RNA viruses.

Classification

Coxsackieviruses are divided into two groups: Coxsackie A viruses and Coxsackie B viruses. Each group includes multiple serotypes. Coxsackie A viruses are primarily associated with hand, foot, and mouth disease, while Coxsackie B viruses are commonly associated with myocarditis, pericarditis, and meningitis.

Transmission and Symptoms

Coxsackieviruses are typically transmitted through fecal-oral route, respiratory droplets, and contact with contaminated surfaces. Symptoms can range from mild to severe and can include fever, sore throat, rash, and in severe cases, myocarditis, pleurodynia, and meningitis.

Diagnosis and Treatment

Diagnosis of coxsackievirus infection is typically based on clinical symptoms and can be confirmed through laboratory testing. Treatment is usually supportive, as there is no specific antiviral therapy for coxsackievirus infections.

Prevention

Prevention of coxsackievirus infection involves good hygiene practices, such as frequent hand washing, avoiding close contact with sick individuals, and cleaning and disinfecting frequently touched surfaces.

See Also

• Enterovirus
• Hand, foot, and mouth disease
• Myocarditis
• Pleurodynia
• Meningitis