Flaviviridae

Flaviviridae is a family of viruses that includes several important human pathogens, such as Dengue virus, West Nile virus, Zika virus, Yellow fever virus, and Hepatitis C virus. These viruses are primarily transmitted by arthropods, particularly mosquitoes and ticks.

Classification

The Flaviviridae family is divided into four genera:

• Flavivirus
• Hepacivirus
• Pestivirus
• Pegivirus

Each of these genera includes several species of viruses that cause disease in humans and other animals.

Structure and Genome

Flaviviridae viruses are enveloped, with icosahedral and spherical geometries, and T=3 symmetry. The diameter is around 40-60 nm. Genomes are linear and non-segmented, around 10-11kb in length.

Replication

Flaviviridae viruses replicate in the cytoplasm of the host cell. Replication follows the positive stranded RNA virus replication model. Positive stranded RNA virus transcription is the method of transcription. The virus exits the host cell by budding, and tubule-guided viral movement. Humans, mammals, birds, and arthropods serve as the natural host.

Diseases

Flaviviridae viruses cause a wide range of diseases in humans and other animals. These include:

• Dengue fever
• West Nile fever
• Zika fever
• Yellow fever
• Hepatitis C

Prevention and Treatment

Prevention of Flaviviridae infections primarily involves controlling the arthropod vectors that transmit these viruses. Vaccines are available for some Flaviviridae viruses, including Yellow fever virus and Dengue virus. Treatment is primarily supportive, as there are currently no antiviral drugs approved for the treatment of Flaviviridae infections.

See Also

• Arbovirus
• Viral diseases
• Viral replication

References

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Flaviviridae

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