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VIRUSES



Introduction

Morphology

  • Very small RNA viruses
  • Much antigenic variation
  • Subtypes evolve and do not cross-protect
  • 4 capsid proteins (VP1-VP4), with VP1 providing neutralizing target

Virulence and Pathogenesis

  • Cytopathic effect of all viruses is an overnight cell rounding and pyknosis

Epidemiology

  • Very resistant
  • Can survive several months on fomites
  • Infect via upper respiratory tract or buccal cavity and spread to target organs after viremia

Types and Subtypes

3 Main Genera:

Enteroviruses

Apthoviruses

Rhinoviruses



Enteroviruses