JESSIE & ALICIA'S TOGAVIRUS PAGE

Togaviridae is a powerful family of viruses that can affect a wide range of host species and bring about some nasty infections. The togavirus family consists of two genera of viruses: the alphavirus genus and the rubivirus genus.

The viruses included in the alphavirus genus are transmitted between hosts by an arthropod vector and are classified as group A arboviruses. Togaviruses in the alphavirus genus hide inside arthropods, usually mosquitoes, in order to get a free ride to their next victim. When the mosquito feeds on the blood of its next vertebrate host, the togavirus can infect the host's blood.

Togaviridae is a powerful family of viruses that can affect a wide range of host species and bring about some nasty infections. The togavirus family consists of two genera of viruses: the alphavirus genus and the rubivirus genus. The viruses included in the alphavirus genus are transmitted between hosts by an arthropod vector and are classified as group A arboviruses. Togaviruses in the alphavirus genus hide inside arthropods, usually mosquitoes, in order to get a free ride to their next victim. When the mosquito feeds on the blood of its next vertebrate host, the togavirus can infect the host's blood.

Photo Courtesy of the CDC Arbovirus web page http://www.cdc.gov/ncidod/dvbid/arbor/mosqfeed.htm

There are 12 alphaviruses that are known to cause disease in humans. What kind of disease, you ask…togaviruses such as Sindbis virus, Eastern equine encephalitis virus, and Western equine encephalitis virus infect the central nervous system in humans causing encephalitis that can, in some cases, lead to death. (see Diseases and Clinical Presentation) So watch out!

And that's not all that togaviridae is hiding under its cloak. Within the rubivirus genus is one very important virus: rubella. This virus is spread by direct contact, aerosols, and even from mother to child. It is usually a harmless childhood rash, but when spread congenitally, the rubella virus can cause multiple birth defects. But luckily there is a vaccine available to protect humans against rubella infection. Have you been vaccinated?

So as not to give the impression that togaviruses are entirely evil…although they do have the potential to cause great harm to humans, scientists are also beginning to use them for our benefit. (see Timely Toga Updates)

This site is designed to help you uncover the exciting world of togaviruses!