Viral Infections and Diseases

Flashcards covering key vocabulary related to viral infections and diseases from the lecture notes.

Virus

A microorganism that replicates inside the living cells of an organism.

Chickenpox (Varicella)

A viral infection causing fever and skin rash, characterized by vesicles.

Varicella zoster virus

The causative agent of chickenpox and shingles, classified under Herpesviridae.

German measles (Rubella)

A viral infection that presents with a pinkish flat rash, especially dangerous for pregnant women.

Measles (rubeola)

A highly contagious viral infection marked by fever, cough, and a characteristic rash.

Smallpox

A contagious disease characterized by fever and a distinctive skin rash, caused by Variola virus.

Warts

Growths on the skin caused by human papillomavirus, generally harmless but can be cancerous.

Conjunctivitis

Inflammation of the conjunctiva often caused by viral infections, leading to redness and pain.

Common Cold

An acute viral infection of the upper respiratory tract characterized by sneezing and sore throat.

Influenza (Flu)

A viral infection causing respiratory illness with symptoms such as fever, cough, and muscle aches.

Genital Herpes

A sexually transmitted infection characterized by painful blisters, typically caused by HSV-2.

HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus)

A virus that attacks the immune system, leading to AIDS and potentially life-threatening infections.

Viral gastroenteritis

An infection of the stomach and intestines leading to symptoms like vomiting and diarrhea.

Hantavirus pulmonary syndrome

A serious respiratory disease caused by Hantavirus, often transmitted from rodents.

Zika virus

A virus transmitted by Aedes mosquitoes, associated with birth defects in babies born to infected mothers.