Poxvirus (Avipox) see also ⇒ Avipoxvirus
General information
The genus Orthopoxvirus belongs to the family of Poxviridae. These occupy a special position within the viruses due to their structure and their virus-specific enzymes. Poxviruses are able to mature into viruses capable of infection in the cytoplasm of the host cell without the cooperation of the cell nucleus. Poxviruses have a relatively large genome with a double-stranded linear DNA.
Orthopoxviruses have a broad host spectrum and are therefore alternately called e.g. cowpox, catpox, elephantpox or ratpox. Cattle, carnivores, rodents and humans are particularly susceptible.
In Germany, the authorities must be notified.