Orthopoxvirus

From WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Orthopoxvirus is a genus of viruses in the family Poxviridae and subfamily Chordopoxvirinae. The viruses in this genus are known to infect humans and other mammals. The most well-known member of this genus is Variola virus, the causative agent of smallpox.

Taxonomy[edit | edit source]

Orthopoxvirus is a genus that belongs to the family Poxviridae and subfamily Chordopoxvirinae. The genus includes the following species:

Structure[edit | edit source]

Orthopoxviruses are large, complex viruses with a linear, double-stranded DNA genome. The virions are brick-shaped or ovoid, and have a complex structure.

Life Cycle[edit | edit source]

Orthopoxviruses are known to infect a wide range of hosts. The life cycle of orthopoxviruses involves several stages, including attachment, penetration, uncoating, replication, assembly, and release.

Pathogenesis[edit | edit source]

Orthopoxviruses cause a variety of diseases in humans and other mammals. The most well-known disease caused by an orthopoxvirus is smallpox, which is caused by the Variola virus.

Prevention and Treatment[edit | edit source]

Vaccination with the Vaccinia virus is the most effective way to prevent infection with orthopoxviruses. Treatment of orthopoxvirus infections is primarily supportive, as there are currently no specific antiviral drugs available.

See Also[edit | edit source]

Orthopoxvirus Resources
Wikipedia
WikiMD
Navigation: Wellness - Encyclopedia - Health topics - Disease Index‏‎ - Drugs - World Directory - Gray's Anatomy - Keto diet - Recipes

Search WikiMD

Ad.Tired of being Overweight? Try W8MD's physician weight loss program.
Semaglutide (Ozempic / Wegovy and Tirzepatide (Mounjaro / Zepbound) available.
Advertise on WikiMD

WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Let Food Be Thy Medicine
Medicine Thy Food - Hippocrates

Medical Disclaimer: WikiMD is not a substitute for professional medical advice. The information on WikiMD is provided as an information resource only, may be incorrect, outdated or misleading, and is not to be used or relied on for any diagnostic or treatment purposes. Please consult your health care provider before making any healthcare decisions or for guidance about a specific medical condition. WikiMD expressly disclaims responsibility, and shall have no liability, for any damages, loss, injury, or liability whatsoever suffered as a result of your reliance on the information contained in this site. By visiting this site you agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, which may from time to time be changed or supplemented by WikiMD. If you do not agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, you should not enter or use this site. See full disclaimer.
Credits:Most images are courtesy of Wikimedia commons, and templates Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY SA or similar.

Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD