Pox virus

Poxvirus is a family of viruses known as Poxviridae, which infect various types of organisms, including humans and other animals. The most well-known member of this family is the Variola virus, the cause of smallpox.

Classification

Poxviruses are the largest and most complex of all viruses. They are classified into two subfamilies: Chordopoxvirinae, which infect vertebrates, and Entomopoxvirinae, which infect insects. The Chordopoxvirinae subfamily includes the Variola virus, Vaccinia virus, and Monkeypox virus.

Structure

Poxviruses are unique among DNA viruses in that they replicate in the cytoplasm of the host cell, rather than in the nucleus. They have a complex structure, with a large, linear, double-stranded DNA genome enclosed in a brick or oval-shaped particle.

Pathogenesis

Poxviruses enter the host organism through the skin or mucous membranes. They then replicate in the cytoplasm of the host cell, causing cell death and inflammation. The viruses are then released to infect other cells, spreading the infection.

Diseases

Poxviruses cause a variety of diseases in humans and animals. The most well-known is smallpox, a highly contagious and deadly disease that was eradicated in 1980 through a global vaccination campaign. Other diseases caused by poxviruses include cowpox, monkeypox, and molluscum contagiosum, a common skin infection in humans.

Prevention and Treatment

Vaccination is the most effective method of preventing poxvirus infections. The smallpox vaccine, made from the Vaccinia virus, was used to eradicate smallpox and is still used today to protect against other poxvirus infections. Treatment for poxvirus infections is primarily supportive, as there are no specific antiviral drugs for these viruses.

See Also

• Virus
• Smallpox
• Vaccination