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Updated: Aug 18, 2026

Dissecting Host-virus Interaction in Lytic Replication of a Model Herpesvirus
Published on: October 7, 2011
Abstract:
Myxoviruses can be divided into 2 groups, orthomyxoviruses and paramyxoviruses. the former comprise the influenza group which is subdivided into types A,B and C. Influenza B and C are purely human pathogens but influenza A, which includes a large number of antigenic subtypes, occurs in nature in pigs, horses, birds and man. All influenza A viruses irrespective of origin are chemically, biologically and genetically related. The epidemics which they cause are curious and puzzling and are an important cause of morbidity. Paramyxoviruses consist of human and animal parainfluenza viruses. The former comprise parainfluenza types 1,2,3 and 4 and mumps viruses, and, rather less certainly, measles and respiratory syncytial virus. The main animal paramyxoviruses are parainfluenza 3 (agent of shipping fever) in cattle; NDV (cause of fowl pest) and Yucaipavirus in birds; Sendai and PVM in mice; Nariva virus in rodents; possibly bovinerespiratory syncytial virus; and SV5 and SV41 in monkeys. The viruses and their place in nature will be reviewed.
Insights
This review categorizes myxoviruses into orthomyxoviruses (influenza A, B, C) and paramyxoviruses, detailing their hosts and roles in human and animal diseases. It highlights influenza A
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Infectious Diseases
- Veterinary Medicine
Background:
- Myxoviruses encompass two primary groups: orthomyxoviruses and paramyxoviruses.
- Orthomyxoviruses include influenza types A, B, and C, with influenza A being a significant cause of morbidity across multiple species.
- Paramyxoviruses comprise human and animal strains, including parainfluenzas, mumps, measles, and respiratory syncytial virus, alongside various animal-specific viruses.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the classification of myxoviruses.
- To detail the hosts and natural occurrence of various myxoviruses.
- To discuss the significance of these viruses in human and animal health.
Main Methods:
- Literature review and synthesis of existing data on myxoviruses.
- Classification based on viral groups, types, and hosts.
- Analysis of epidemiological and etiological roles.
Main Results:
- Orthomyxoviruses: Influenza A, B, and C are distinguished by their hosts and antigenic variations.
- Paramyxoviruses: A diverse range of human and animal viruses are identified, including parainfluenza, mumps, and NDV (fowl pest).
- Influenza A viruses exhibit cross-species infectivity and are genetically related, causing significant epidemics.
Conclusions:
- Myxoviruses represent a broad category of significant viral pathogens affecting both humans and animals.
- Understanding the diversity and host range of these viruses is crucial for disease control and prevention.
- Further review is needed to fully elucidate the place of these viruses in nature and their impact.
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