Onsetaviruses

Onsetaviruses are a newly identified genus of viruses within the family Picornaviridae. These small, non-enveloped RNA viruses are characterized by their positive-sense, single-stranded RNA genome. The genus was established based on genetic and morphological distinctiveness from other picornavirus genera. Currently, the genus contains a single species, Onsetavirus enteritis. Onsetaviruses have been implicated in gastrointestinal illness in humans. Initial research suggests that transmission occurs primarily through the fecal-oral route, consistent with many other enterically transmitted viruses. Diagnostic methods for onsetaviruses typically involve molecular techniques such as RT-PCR. Further research is ongoing to fully understand the epidemiology, pathogenesis, and potential public health implications of onsetaviruses. Their emergence highlights the continuous discovery of novel viral agents and the importance of ongoing surveillance and characterization of human pathogens.