Viral GIT Infections

What is gastroenteritis primarily caused by?

Gastroenteritis is inflammation of the stomach and intestines caused predominantly by viruses.

Which virus is the major cause of infantile gastroenteritis?

Rotavirus is the major cause of infantile gastroenteritis.

What are the common seasonal trends for Norovirus?

Norovirus is most common in winter and is often referred to as 'Winter Vomiting Disease'.

What characterizes the structure of Rotavirus?

Rotavirus is a spherical, non-enveloped virus with glycoprotein spikes on the capsid.

How is Rotavirus transmitted?

Rotavirus is transmitted via the faecal-oral route.

What notable clinical impact does Rotavirus have?

Rotavirus is a major cause of infantile gastroenteritis but is self-limiting with proper fluid and electrolyte support.

What vaccination impact has been observed regarding Rotavirus in the UK?

Vaccination has significantly reduced hospitalisations due to Rotavirus.

What virus affects mature enterocytes in the small intestine?

Rotavirus targets mature enterocytes at tips/middle of villi in the small intestine.

What is NSP4 in the context of Rotavirus?

NSP4 is an enterotoxin produced by Rotavirus that binds to epithelial cells, increasing intracellular Ca²⁺.

What symptoms are associated with Norovirus infection?

Symptoms of Norovirus infection include nausea, projectile vomiting, watery diarrhoea, and occasionally fever and headache.

How is Norovirus commonly transmitted?

Norovirus is transmitted via surfaces, hands, and objects, as well as through contaminated food.

What preventative measures can help control the spread of Norovirus?

Preventative measures include avoiding food handling when ill, using disinfectants, and avoiding sharing personal items.

Which virus was thought to be a calicivirus but is now in its own family?

Hepatitis E Virus (HEV) was once thought to be a calicivirus.

What group of viruses is responsible for outbreaks in young children?

Astroviruses are major causes of diarrhoea in young children.

What are the common symptoms of an Astrovirus infection?

Astrovirus infection typically causes diarrhoea without vomiting and may last from 1 to 4 days.

Which viruses are part of the Enterovirus family?

The Enterovirus family includes Poliovirus, Echovirus, and Coxsackievirus.

What outcomes are associated with Poliovirus infection?

Poliovirus can lead to asymptomatic cases, minor polio, non-paralytic cases, and paralytic polio.

What disease does Coxsackie A primarily cause?

Coxsackie A causes lesions, fever, and hand-foot-and-mouth disease.

Which Coxsackie virus affects the heart?

Coxsackie B affects the heart and may lead to myocarditis.

What is the incubation period for Hepatitis A Virus (HAV)?

The incubation period for Hepatitis A Virus is approximately 1 month.

What symptoms are characteristic of Hepatitis A infection?

Symptoms of Hepatitis A include fatigue, nausea, anorexia, fever, and jaundice.

What is the transmission route for Hepatitis E Virus?

Hepatitis E Virus is transmitted via the faecal-oral route.

How does Aichi virus replicate in the host?

Aichi virus enters via endocytosis and uses the host ribosome for protein synthesis.

What is a distinguishing feature of Aichi virus symptoms?

Aichi virus targets intestinal villi, leading to diarrhoea and impaired nutrient absorption.

Which virus was first identified in Norwalk, Ohio?

Norovirus was first identified in Norwalk, Ohio in 1968.

What are the common contamination sources for Norovirus outbreaks?

Common sources include shellfish (due to sewage contamination) and fresh produce like leafy greens.

What causes osmotic diarrhoea in Rotavirus infection?

Osmotic diarrhoea in Rotavirus infection is caused by NSP4 activating Cl⁻ channels.

What is the role of glycoprotein spikes in Rotavirus?

Glycoprotein spikes on the capsid aid in attachment of Rotavirus to host cells.

What is the infective dose of Norovirus?

Norovirus has a low infective dose.

What is one major risk factor for Hepatitis E-related fatalities?

Pregnant women are at higher risk for fatalities due to Hepatitis E.

What is the significance of the term 'self-limiting' in relation to Rotavirus?

Self-limiting means that Rotavirus infections typically resolve on their own with supportive care.

What did the reduction in Rotavirus cases in Ireland demonstrate?

The reduction from 840 to 309 cases per year demonstrated the effectiveness of vaccination.

Why is hygiene critical in controlling Norovirus outbreaks?

Hygiene is essential because Norovirus spreads rapidly via vomit and contaminated surfaces.

What is the most common season for Echovirus outbreaks?

Echovirus outbreaks are more common in summer and autumn.

Which virus is associated with the risk of developing diabetes due to islet cell destruction?

Coxsackie B virus can lead to diabetes by destroying islets of Langerhans.

What are the primary symptoms of Enteroviral infections?

Symptoms of Enteroviral infections can range from respiratory illness to gastrointestinal complaints.