Myxoma virus is a highly contagious and deadly viral pathogen that primarily affects rabbits and certain wild hares. It belongs to the poxvirus family and is specifically categorized as a Leporipoxvirus. The virus is responsible for causing myxomatosis, a severe and often fatal disease.
The myxoma virus is transmitted through direct contact between infected and susceptible animals, as well as through blood-sucking insects such as fleas, mosquitoes, and ticks. Once the virus enters the body, it targets cells of the skin, lymph nodes, conjunctiva, and other epithelial tissues.
The characteristic symptoms of myxomatosis include swelling and lesions on the head, eyes, ears, and genitals. The infected rabbits often develop severe conjunctivitis, leading to swelling and closure of the eyes. Additionally, they may exhibit a loss of appetite, lethargy, respiratory distress, and secondary bacterial infections.
While myxoma virus has been used in biological control of rabbit populations due to its high mortality rate, the virus has also evolved several strains that cause less severe disease in certain rabbit populations. These less virulent strains allow the host animals to survive, develop immunity, and eventually control the viral spread.
In conclusion, myxoma virus is a highly contagious poxvirus that causes myxomatosis in rabbits and hares. It is transmitted through direct contact or vector insects, leading to severe symptoms including tissue swelling, lesions, conjunctivitis, and respiratory problems.
