Herpesvirus

Herpesvirus is a large family of DNA viruses that cause diseases in animals, including humans. The members of this family are also known as herpesviruses. The family name is derived from the Greek word herpein ("to creep"), referring to the latent, recurring infections typical of this group of viruses. Herpesviruses have been isolated from many species, all of which maintain a species-specific and lifelong latent infection after the initial exposure.

Classification

Herpesviruses are classified into three subfamilies based on their biological properties: the Alphaherpesvirinae, Betaherpesvirinae, and Gammaherpesvirinae. Each of these subfamilies contains different species of herpesviruses.

Structure

Herpesviruses are large, enveloped viruses with an icosahedral capsid. The viral genome is large and linear, composed of double-stranded DNA.

Pathogenesis

Herpesviruses are capable of causing both latent and lytic infections. In a latent infection, the virus remains dormant within the host cell, while in a lytic infection, the virus replicates and destroys the host cell.

Diseases

Herpesviruses are responsible for a variety of diseases in humans, including herpes simplex, chickenpox, shingles, mononucleosis, and Kaposi's sarcoma.

Treatment

Treatment for herpesvirus infections typically involves antiviral medications, such as acyclovir and valacyclovir.

Prevention

Prevention strategies for herpesvirus infections include vaccination (for certain types of herpesviruses), safe sex practices, and avoiding close contact with infected individuals.

See also

• Virus
• DNA virus
• Herpes simplex
• Chickenpox
• Shingles
• Mononucleosis
• Kaposi's sarcoma
• Acyclovir
• Valacyclovir

Herpesvirus Resources
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