Flaviviridae

VIRUSES

Introduction

This group of viruses has three distinct genera, two of which are of veterinary concern. Flaviviruses, which are endemic vector-borne neurotropic viruses, include louping ill and West Nile Virus. Pestiviruses include Swine Fever and Bovine Virus Diarrhoea and present more hemorrhagic disease. Hepatitis C in man is also grouped in this classification.

Morphology

• Medium sized enveloped viruses

Types and Subtypes

Pestiviruses

All three pestiviruses of veterinary importance are closely related to one another. All three induce cross-reacting antibodies but there is no evidence for closer antigenicity.