Respiratory Viruses II Flashcards
Why do respiratory syncytial virus and influenza peak rates in the winter?
They are stabilized by low temperature and low humidity
Do you get long term immunity from RSV infection?
No - only short term immunity with less severe reinfection
How is RSV transmitted?
Respiratory droplets
What is the presentation of RSV in infants?
Severe lower respiratory tract infection in children
What is the pathogenesis of RSV?
Necrosis of bronchiolar epithelium that leads to the occlusion of bronchioles with mucus and cellular debris leading to hyperinflation and air trapping
What is the current recommended mode of detection for RSV?
RT-PCR
Is there a vaccine or treatment for RSV?
No - but there is preventative treatment
What is the preventative treatment for RSV?
Palivizumab - monoclonal antibody against RSV entry to cells
Why did the killed virus vaccine for RSV in the 1960s cause more severe disease?
The vaccine was made to the post fusion RSV protein which facilitated disease rather than neutralizing it
What virus can present similarly to RSV but is not RSV?
Human Metapneumovirus
What is croup in an infant suggestive of?
- Parainfluenza
- Coronavirus - more rare
Does parainfluenza lead to long term immunity?
No
Is there a vaccine for parainfluenza virus?
No
What is negative strand RNA?
Goes 3’ to 5’ instead
What must happen with negative strand viruses first on invasion?
Conversion to a positive strand
