Virus Virulence Flashcards
(15 cards)
What are the two types of genetic instructions viruses contain?
Structural (assembled into new virus particles and non structural (polymerases)
How do some viruses make us sick?
- altering physiology of a tissue
- Viruses cause inflammation
What cells detect viral infection near or at the site of infection?
Cytokines - these chemical messengers attract immune cells circulating in the blood to the infected tissue.
What can excess inflammation lead to?
Severe virus diseases including hemorrhagic fevers ex: Ebola has leaky blood vessels - internal bleeding and encephalitis.
What is viral hepatitis?
This is inflammation of the liver.
How are Hep A and E transmitted?
Via the fecal/oral route.
Is Hep A and E short lived?
Yes, they are generally acute infections - vaccine for hep A available.
Hep B and C can cause which types of infections?
Short lived or long lived infections - depending on the individual infected.
How are Hep B and C transmitted?
Via the blood - needle sharing, unprotected sex or from a mother to her unborn child.
Which hep is there antivirals for but not a vaccine?
Hep C
Which hep is there a vaccine for but no cure?
Hep B
How is Hep D transmitted?
In people who already have hep B. Transmission is the same for both. Hep B vaccine helps with Hep D infection.
What are the three direct diagnostic tests for virus detection?
Electron microscopy - morphology and tissue changes
PCR - detect nucleic acid
Antibodies - antigen
What are the 2 indirect diagnostic tests of virus detection?
Cytopathic effects - cells are put onto cell culture in the lab
Fusing ex: sinusitis
What is serology used for, what type of method?
ELISA
Detection of antibodies.
