Wait! Before you kiss, do you know that you could be at risk of contracting Herpes Simplex?
Herpes virus Genome
All herpesvirus virions have four structural elements.
- Core - The core consists of a single linear molecule of dsDNA in the form of a torus.
- Capsid - Surrounding the core is an icosahedral capsid with a 100 nm diameter constructed of 162 capsomeres.
- Tegument - Between the capsid and envelope is an amorphous, sometimes asymmetrical, feature named the tegument. It consists of viral enzymes, some of which are needed to take control of the cell's chemical processes and subvert them to virion production, some of which defend against the host cell's immediate responses, and others for which the function is not yet understood.
- Envelope - The envelope is the outer layer of the virion and is composed of altered host membrane and a dozen unique viral glycoproteins. They appear in electron micrographs as short spikes embedded in the envelope.
Unique features of herpes virus
- Virus infects vertebrates.
- Following primary infection, virus remains latent until reactivation
Pathogenesis
1. Herpes Simplex Viruses
- HSV1 (cold sores) - oral cavity
- HSV2 (genital herpes) - genital
2. Varicella Zoster virus
- Varicella (chicken pox) - respiratory tract, pharyn
- Herpes Zoster (shingles)
Clinical Features- Herpes Simplex
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- Cold sores- blister around mouth/eyes/gum for around 1 week
- Genital herpes- blisters, burning sensation, discharge- 1-3 wks
Clinical Features- Varicella Zoster
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- Fever and lesion all over body.
- Dangerous in pregnant women
Epidemiology and Control
Herpes simplex- avoid kissing, close proximity and risky sexual behaviours.
Varicella Zoster- vaccine available for VZV, avoid infected people.
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