JUNIN VIRUS Meaning and
Definition
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Junín virus is a member of the Arenaviridae family and is the causative agent of Argentine hemorrhagic fever (AHF). It is named after the province of Junín in Argentina, where the virus was first identified in 1958. Junín virus is primarily transmitted to humans through direct contact with infected rodents, particularly Calomys musculinus or the vesper mouse, commonly found in rural areas of South America.
The virus belongs to the New World arenaviruses and has an enveloped, spherical shape. It possesses a single-stranded RNA genome, composed of two segments, which encode for four proteins. The unique glycoprotein (GP) on the surface of Junín virus is crucial for viral entry into host cells and is a target for immune response.
In humans, Junín virus infection can lead to severe disease, characterized by fever, headache, muscle aches, and fatigue. As the disease progresses, patients may experience vascular and immunological disturbances, leading to bleeding, organ failure, and potentially death. Argentine hemorrhagic fever has a case fatality rate of approximately 20% in untreated patients, highlighting the importance of early diagnosis and treatment.
Prevention and control of Junín virus infection primarily involve rodent control measures, as well as personal protective measures such as wearing gloves and long-sleeved clothing in areas where the virus is endemic. Vaccination with the Candid#1 vaccine, derived from the Junín strain, has been highly successful in reducing the incidence of Argentine hemorrhagic fever in endemic regions.
Common Misspellings for JUNIN VIRUS
- hunin virus
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- jynin virus
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Etymology of JUNIN VIRUS
The term Junin virus is derived from the name of the disease it causes, Junin, and the fact that it is a virus. Junin is a city located in the Argentine province of Buenos Aires, where a severe hemorrhagic fever known as Argentine hemorrhagic fever (AHF) broke out in the 1950s. The virus responsible for the disease was then named after the city where it was first isolated and identified. AHF, caused by Junin virus, is a viral infection primarily transmitted by rodents, particularly the Calomys musculinus species, also known as the colilargo or long-tailed mouse.
