Orthomyxoviruses – Influenza and other viruses

The Orthomyxoviruses is a family of viruses with its most common representatives being the influenza viruses (A, B, C and D types), which constitute a significant clinical problem. Influenza is a disease affecting animals and people. It is transmitted by airborne droplets and manifestes itself with such symptoms as coughing, sneezing, muscle pain or fever. Influenza often leads to complications, including pneumonia and myocarditis. In the past, influenza viruses were responsible for pandemics, including the most infamous pandemic of the Spanish influenza. It took place in the years 1918–1919 and is thought to have been responsible for the death toll of as many as 100 million people. The family also includes Isavirus, responsible for fish anaemia, Quaranjavirus and Thogotovirus, among which there also species causing diseases in humans. For example, a human infection with the Bourbon virus was diagnosed only once, in 2014. These viruses are much more rare then influenza viruse and also less known. New species are still discovered.

1. Introduction. 2. Characteristics. 3. Replication of a model Influenzavirus A. 4. History. 5. Diagnostic methods. 6. Pathogenicity. 6.1. Influenza – Influenza viruses. 6.2. Thogotovirus. 6.3. Isavirus. 6.4. Quaranjavirus. 7. Treatment. 8. Summary