Overview
Paramyxoviruses are a family of enveloped, single-stranded RNA viruses that cause a variety of diseases in humans and animals. These include common colds, measles, mumps, respiratory infection, and some types of meningitis. Paramyxoviruses are particularly noteworthy for their ability to cause severe outbreaks and epidemics in both humans and animals. By understanding the biology of these viruses, researchers and medical professionals can work to prevent, diagnose, and treat these illnesses. Vaccines have been developed to protect against many of these viral infections, and continuing medical research can help protect populations from future outbreaks.