Paramyxoviruses

Paramyxoviruses are a large family of viruses that cause a range of human and animal diseases. They include respiratory illnesses such as measles, mumps, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). They can also cause serious neurological diseases, including Newcastle disease in poultry, rabies in mammals, and Hendra virus and Nipah virus in humans. Paramyxoviruses are spread through direct or indirect contact with bodily fluids of an infected person or animal. Vaccines can help prevent some forms of paramyxovirus infection. Antiviral drugs can also be used to treat some more serious infections. Understanding the characteristics of paramyxoviruses is important in order to track and control the spread of disease.