Mumps orthorubulavirus

Mumps orthorubulavirus is a species of virus in the family Paramyxoviridae, genus Orthorubulavirus. It is the causative agent of mumps, a highly contagious disease that primarily affects the salivary glands.

Taxonomy

Mumps orthorubulavirus is a member of the Paramyxoviridae family, which also includes other significant human and animal pathogens such as Measles morbillivirus and Canine distemper virus. Within the family, it belongs to the genus Orthorubulavirus, which is characterized by viruses with a nonsegmented, negative-sense RNA genome.

Structure

The virus is enveloped and has a spherical shape, with a diameter of approximately 150-200 nm. The genome of Mumps orthorubulavirus is a single-stranded, negative-sense RNA molecule, approximately 15.3 kilobases in length.

Pathogenesis

Mumps orthorubulavirus is transmitted through respiratory droplets and direct contact with an infected person. The virus primarily targets the salivary glands, particularly the parotid glands, leading to their inflammation and swelling, a condition known as mumps. Other organs can also be affected, leading to complications such as orchitis, oophoritis, pancreatitis, and meningitis.

Prevention and Treatment

Vaccination with the Mumps-Measles-Rubella (MMR) vaccine is the most effective method of preventing mumps. Treatment is primarily supportive, as there is no specific antiviral therapy for mumps.

See Also

• Mumps
• Paramyxoviridae
• Orthorubulavirus
• Mumps vaccine