Herpesviruses

This overview addresses herpes viruses with particular emphasis on the characteristics of herpes viruses, including their structure, classification, and hallmark lifelong latency. We will discuss their modes of transmission, diverse clinical presentations, and major diagnostic and treatment strategies. The importance of prevention efforts toward vaccine development and ongoing challenges in managing these persistent viruses will also be highlighted. We'll explore herpes viruses, ancient common viruses known for establishing lifelong infections in humans. These large enveloped viruses have a double-stranded DNA genome. Well-known types include HSV-1, which causes cold sores, HSV-2, responsible for genital herpes, VZV, causing chickenpox and shingles, EBV, known for mononucleosis, and CMV, important in immunocompromised and newborn patients. Most people are infected by middle age. Their hallmark is latency persisting in the body for years or even life. Let's examine their structure and classification. Herpes viruses are among the largest viruses with a linear double-stranded DNA genome inside an icosahedral capsid. This is surrounded by a protein tegument and an outer envelope from the host cell membrane featuring viral glycoproteins for cell entry. Human herpes viruses fall into three subfamilies, Alpha HSV-1, HSV-2, VZV, Beta, CMV, HHV-6, HHV-7,