POXVIRUS INFECTION Meaning and
Definition
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Poxvirus infection refers to an infectious disease caused by the family of viruses known as poxviruses. Poxviruses are large, complex viruses that possess a unique shape and structure, and have the ability to infect a wide range of animal species, including humans.
The infection typically occurs through direct contact with an infected individual or by exposure to contaminated objects or surfaces. Poxvirus infections are characterized by the formation of skin lesions, accompanied by symptoms such as fever, fatigue, headache, and muscle aches.
The most well-known and historically significant poxvirus infection is smallpox, which was caused by the variola virus. Smallpox was notorious for its highly contagious nature and severe symptoms, including high fever and the formation of fluid-filled vesicles all over the body. However, due to a highly effective global vaccination campaign, smallpox has been eradicated, and it no longer poses a threat to human health.
Other poxviruses that can cause infections in humans include monkeypox, cowpox, and orf virus. While these infections are generally less severe than smallpox, they can still cause discomfort and potential complications, particularly in individuals with weakened immune systems.
Currently, there is no specific antiviral treatment for most poxvirus infections, but supportive care and symptom management can help alleviate the discomfort associated with the infection. Vaccines are available for some of the poxviruses, such as smallpox and monkeypox, which can provide protection against these diseases.
Common Misspellings for POXVIRUS INFECTION
- ooxvirus infection
- loxvirus infection
- -oxvirus infection
- 0oxvirus infection
- pixvirus infection
- pkxvirus infection
- plxvirus infection
- ppxvirus infection
- p0xvirus infection
- p9xvirus infection
- pozvirus infection
- pocvirus infection
- podvirus infection
- posvirus infection
- poxcirus infection
- poxbirus infection
- poxgirus infection
- poxfirus infection
- poxvurus infection
- poxvjrus infection
Etymology of POXVIRUS INFECTION
The term "poxvirus infection" is composed of two parts: "poxvirus" and "infection".
The term "poxvirus" is derived from the word "pox", which originally comes from the Latin word "pustis" meaning "pustule". The word "pox" has been used historically to refer to various infectious diseases characterized by the formation of pustules or sores on the skin. The term "poxvirus" specifically refers to a family of viruses known as Poxviridae, which include variola virus (the causative agent of smallpox), cowpox virus, and many others.
The word "infection" comes from the Latin word "infectio", meaning "to infect".
