Poxviruses

Poxviruses are a family of large, complex viruses that infect a variety of vertebrates, including humans. The most common and well-known of these are the variola virus, which causes smallpox, and the varicella-zoster virus, which causes chickenpox and shingles. These viruses can be spread through contact with an infected person or animal, through the air, and through contaminated objects. Poxviruses cause severe symptoms such as fever, skin rash, and body aches. Vaccines are available to protect against certain poxviruses, but there is currently no cure available. Research on poxviruses is ongoing, as they have potential uses as a bioweapon and are also studied for their ability to be genetically modified to develop vaccines and cancer treatments.