VARIOLA VIRUSES Meaning and
Definition
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Variola viruses are a genus of viruses that belong to the family Poxviridae and are responsible for causing the highly contagious and deadly disease known as smallpox. Smallpox is a severe illness characterized by fever, rash, and the formation of fluid-filled blisters on the skin, which can leave permanent scars and may lead to death in a significant number of cases. Variola viruses are divided into two main types: variola major, which causes more severe disease with a higher mortality rate, and variola minor, associated with milder symptoms and a lower fatality rate.
Variola viruses are large, brick-shaped, enveloped viruses that contain double-stranded DNA as their genetic material. They replicate entirely within the cytoplasm of host cells. Smallpox is primarily transmitted through direct contact with respiratory droplets expelled by an infected person or through contact with contaminated objects such as bedding or clothing. It typically has an incubation period of 7 to 17 days.
The worldwide eradication of smallpox in 1980 through a vigorous vaccination campaign led by the World Health Organization marked a major triumph in public health. Variola viruses are now only found in highly secured laboratories, and routine vaccination against smallpox is no longer necessary.
Due to their historical significance and potential use as a biological weapon, variola viruses are classified as select agents in many countries, and their possession, transfer, or use is strictly regulated to prevent intentional outbreaks or accidental releases.
Common Misspellings for VARIOLA VIRUSES
- cariola viruses
- bariola viruses
- gariola viruses
- fariola viruses
- vzriola viruses
- vsriola viruses
- vwriola viruses
- vqriola viruses
- vaeiola viruses
- vadiola viruses
- vafiola viruses
- vatiola viruses
- va5iola viruses
- va4iola viruses
- varuola viruses
- varjola viruses
- varkola viruses
- varoola viruses
- var9ola viruses
- var8ola viruses
Etymology of VARIOLA VIRUSES
The word "Variola" is derived from the Latin word "variola" which means "pimple" or "poisonous grain". It is a term that has been used historically to refer to the smallpox disease caused by the Variola virus. The word "viruses" is the plural form of "virus" and comes from the Latin word "virus" meaning "poison" or "slimy liquid". Together, "Variola viruses" refers to the group of viruses that cause the disease known as smallpox.
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