L3 Smallpox Virus
What is another name for smallpox virus?
Variola Virus
What are poxviruses?
They are the largest and most complex viruses.
This group includes:
- Variola Virus
Etiologic agent for smallpox
- Vaccinia Virus
Used for smallpox vaccine
What is smallpox?
A serious, contagious, sometimes fatal infection. It results in the development of bumps on the face and
body of an infected person.
There are no specific treatments for smallpox. Moreover, vaccination is for prevention only.
Why is studying about smallpox important?
Although the virus has been eradicated, it can be reintroduced as a biological weapon.
What is the morphology of Smallpox virus?
It is enveloped, and contains dsDNA, as well as more than 15 enzymes.
How is smallpox seen under a light microscope?
The virus appears as a dot
Explain the process of replication
The virus enters through the mucous membrane of Upper Respiratory Tract, and 90 minutes after
infection DNA replication begins in the cytoplasm.
- Viral Attachment, Penetration, and Uncoating
The virus will attach to the cell surface and fuse with the cell membrane.
Uncoating takes place, which allows the viral core to enter the cytoplasm.
Synthesis of early mRNA takes place withing the viral core.
What is another name for smallpox virus?
Variola Virus
What are poxviruses?
They are the largest and most complex viruses.
This group includes:
- Variola Virus
Etiologic agent for smallpox
- Vaccinia Virus
Used for smallpox vaccine
What is smallpox?
A serious, contagious, sometimes fatal infection. It results in the development of bumps on the face and
body of an infected person.
There are no specific treatments for smallpox. Moreover, vaccination is for prevention only.
Why is studying about smallpox important?
Although the virus has been eradicated, it can be reintroduced as a biological weapon.
What is the morphology of Smallpox virus?
It is enveloped, and contains dsDNA, as well as more than 15 enzymes.
How is smallpox seen under a light microscope?
The virus appears as a dot
Explain the process of replication
The virus enters through the mucous membrane of Upper Respiratory Tract, and 90 minutes after
infection DNA replication begins in the cytoplasm.
- Viral Attachment, Penetration, and Uncoating
The virus will attach to the cell surface and fuse with the cell membrane.
Uncoating takes place, which allows the viral core to enter the cytoplasm.
Synthesis of early mRNA takes place withing the viral core.
