ICTV Virus Taxonomy Profile: Paramyxoviridae

Area of Science:

• Virology
• Taxonomy
• Infectious Diseases

Background:

• The family *Paramyxoviridae* comprises large, enveloped RNA viruses.
• These viruses infect a wide range of hosts, including mammals, birds, reptiles, and fish.
• Several *Paramyxoviridae* members, such as measles and Nipah viruses, are significant human pathogens.

Purpose of the Study:

• To summarize the current International Committee on Taxonomy of Viruses (ICTV) Report on the family *Paramyxoviridae*.
• To provide an accessible overview of the classification and characteristics of *Paramyxoviridae*.

Main Methods:

• Review and synthesis of the latest ICTV Report on *Paramyxoviridae*.
• Compilation of information on virus characteristics, host range, and transmission routes.

Main Results:

• The report provides an updated classification of the *Paramyxoviridae* family.
• Key characteristics, host specificities, and pathogenic potentials of various *Paramyxoviridae* are detailed.
• Horizontal transmission, primarily via airborne routes, is the known mode of spread, with no vectors identified.

Conclusions:

• The ICTV Report serves as a crucial resource for understanding *Paramyxoviridae* taxonomy and biology.
• Knowledge of *Paramyxoviridae* is essential for public health and veterinary medicine due to their pathogenic potential.