RNA Viruses Overview

This set of flashcards covers key vocabulary terms related to RNA viruses discussed in the lecture.

Arena viridae

A family of segmented RNA viruses that are mostly zoonotic and spread by rodents.

Lymphocytic chorio meningitis virus

A virus commonly found in hamsters that causes flu-like symptoms but not meningitis.

Transmission of Lymphocytic chorio meningitis virus

Inhalation of aerosols or ingestion of food contaminated with rodent urine, feces, or saliva.

Lassa fever virus

A virus that occurs in West Africa, causes hemorrhagic fever, and is transmitted via body fluids.

Multi mammate rat

The vector for Lassa fever virus, scientifically known as Mastomys natalensis.

Astroviridae

A family of RNA viruses characterized by star-shaped polyhedral capsids that cause gastroenteritis.

Prevention of Astroviridae infection

Proper handwashing, not sharing utensils, and maintaining sanitation.

Bunya viridae

A family of RNA viruses mostly transmitted via arthropod bites, causing serious diseases such as hemorrhagic fever.

Arboviruses

Viruses transmitted to humans from arthropods, including California encephalitis and lacrosse viruses.

Norwalk virus

A virus studied during an outbreak of diarrhea in Norwalk, Ohio, known as a leading cause of foodborne illness.

Hepatitis E virus

An icosahedral, non-enveloped virus with four genotypes, transmitted through the fecal-oral route.

Corona veridae

A family of single-stranded enveloped RNA viruses, including the coronavirus responsible for COVID-19.

COVID-19 transmission

Primarily spreads through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes.

Filoviridae

An enveloped helical single-stranded RNA virus family that causes severe diseases such as Ebola and Marburg.

Ebola hemorrhagic fever

A severe disease caused by the Ebola virus, which infects macrophages and causes capillary leakage and bleeding.

Signs of Filoviridae infection

Jelly-like consistency of internal organs, uncontrolled bleeding, headache, and severe fever.