Herpesviridae is a heterogeneous family of morphologically similar viruses, all of which contain double-stranded DNA and infect humans and a wide variety of other vertebrates.
Infections produce type A inclusion bodies; in many instances, infection may remain latent for many years, even in the presence of specific circulating antibodies. Virions are enveloped, ether sensitive, and vary up to 200 nm in diameter; the nucleocapsids are 100 nm in diameter and of icosahedral symmetry, with 162 capsomeres.
Virus causes viral encephalitis. If passed from mother to baby during childbirth, brain damage may be caused to the baby.
The family is subdivided into three subfamilies:
1. Alphaherpesvirinae
- herpes simplex virus
- varicella-zoster virus,
2. Betaherpesvirinae
- cytomegalovirus
- human herpes type 6
- human herpes type 7
3.Gammaherpesvirinae
- epstein barr virus
- human herpes type 8
Herpesviridae: family of enveloped DNA viruses; occur in man, cold-blooded vertebrates, and invertebrates; some may induce neoplasia; transmission is usually by contact but it can occur by other routes.
Herpes simplex virus -
There's two type of HSV - HSV 1 and HSV 2. The virus can be primary or recurrent. On the infected patient may have cold sores around the mouth for one week or genital herpes for around one to three weeks, sometimes the eyes and gum may be affected too.
HSV 1 is spread by kissing or close proximity. According to the US stats, 100% of the adult population have carriers of HSV 1
HSV 2 is transmitted mainly via sexual contact. According to the US stats, up to 20% of the adult population are infected.
Electron Micrograph of Varicella Zoster
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