Herpesviruses
Herpesviruses are a large family of DNA viruses within the order Herpesvirales. Members infect a wide range of vertebrates and are characterized by enveloped, icosahedral virions, large double-stranded DNA genomes, and a tendency to establish lifelong latent infections in host cells. Following primary infection, many herpesviruses establish latency in sensory neurons or lymphoid cells and can reactivate periodically, often during stress or immunosuppression.
Taxonomy and key members: The family is divided into three subfamilies. Alphaherpesvirinae includes rapidly replicating viruses
Clinical spectrum: HSV-1 and HSV-2 commonly cause oral and genital lesions and can involve the eyes or
Diagnosis and treatment: Diagnosis uses PCR, serology, and, when appropriate, viral culture. Antiviral drugs such as
Prevention and vaccines: Vaccines exist for varicella and herpes zoster (Varicella vaccine and Shingrix), reducing the
Epidemiology: Herpesviruses are globally prevalent; most people acquire primary infection in childhood or early adulthood, with