Enterovirus C

Enterovirus C is a species of virus in the genus Enterovirus of the Picornaviridae family. It is a non-enveloped, positive-sense, single-stranded RNA virus that is notable for including the polioviruses, which are historically significant for causing poliomyelitis.

Classification

Enterovirus C is classified under the family Picornaviridae, genus Enterovirus. The genus Enterovirus also includes Enterovirus A, Enterovirus B, Enterovirus D, and Enterovirus E. The species Enterovirus C includes several serotypes including Poliovirus 1, Poliovirus 2, Poliovirus 3, and Coxsackievirus A13, A15, A18, and A21.

Structure and Genome

Enterovirus C is a non-enveloped virus with an icosahedral capsid. The genome of Enterovirus C is a single-stranded, positive-sense RNA molecule approximately 7.5 kilobases in length. The genome contains a single open reading frame that encodes a polyprotein, which is subsequently cleaved into the structural and non-structural proteins of the virus.

Pathogenesis and Clinical Features

Enterovirus C is primarily transmitted via the fecal-oral route. After ingestion, the virus replicates in the gastrointestinal tract and can spread to other tissues via the bloodstream. The virus can cause a range of diseases, from mild respiratory illness to severe conditions such as poliomyelitis.

Prevention and Treatment

Prevention of Enterovirus C infection primarily involves good hygiene practices, such as regular hand washing, especially after using the toilet and changing diapers, and before eating or preparing food. Vaccination is available for poliovirus, a serotype of Enterovirus C. Treatment is usually supportive, as there are currently no antiviral drugs approved for the treatment of Enterovirus C infection.

See Also

• Enterovirus
• Poliomyelitis
• Picornaviridae
• RNA virus

Enterovirus C Resources
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