Where did the Junin virus come from?

Junín virus (JUNV) causes Argentine hemorrhagic fever (AHF), a disease endemic to the pampas region of Argentina, with approximately five million people at risk [1,2]. AHF was first described in 1953, and the virus was isolated several years later.

Is there a cure for the Junin virus?

Currently, the sole clinically validated treatment option for Argentine hemorrhagic fever (AHF), caused by Junin virus (JUNV), is administration of immune plasma.

Is there a vaccine for Junin virus?

Junin virus (JUNV) is a pathogen of biodefense importance due to its potential for aerosol transmission and mortality rates reaching 30%. Currently, there are no JUNV vaccines licensed by the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for at-risk individuals.

What does the Junin virus look like?

Junin is an enveloped virus containing two single-stranded RNA molecules. Virions are pleomorphic; particles varying in diameter from about 40 to 200 nm, with evenly spaced glycoprotein spikes protruding 7–10 nm from the surface (Buchmeier et al., 2006).

How long does Junin virus last?

Three phases are recognised in Argentine haemorrhagic fever (AHF) caused by Junin virus: prodromal, neurological-haemorrhagic, and convalescence(4). Prodromal phase : Usually lasts for 1 week from the onset of symptoms(4).

What does Junin mean?

Medical Definition of Junin virus : a single-stranded RNA virus of the genus Arenavirus (species Junin virus) that is the causative agent of a hemorrhagic fever endemic in agricultural regions of Argentina and that is transmitted to humans chiefly by rodents (especially genus Calomys)

How does the Junin virus spread?

MODES OF TRANSMISSION: Human exposure to Junin virus is believed to occur mainly through inhalation of aerosolised body fluids (blood, saliva) or excretions (urine, faeces) of infected rodents, typically during agricultural work(1,3,4,11,13).

How are arenaviruses transmitted to humans?

Arenaviruses are shed into the environment in the urine, saliva, or droppings of infected rodent hosts. People become infected by breathing in the virus after rodent urine, droppings, or nesting materials are stirred up, such as during cleaning.

How does Junin virus spread?

How can you prevent arenavirus?

What can be done to prevent the spread of Arenaviridae? General rules of thumb: • Avoid contact with blood and body fluids of infected individuals • Prevent rodents from nesting in or near your home. Avoid rodent contact when traveling to affected countries • Keep pet food covered and stored in rodent-proof containers.

How is arenavirus transmitted?

Arenaviruses are associated with rodents, their natural hosts. Some of these viruses can be transmitted to humans by contact with faeces/urine from infected rodents or with dust containing infective particles.

How long does adenovirus stay in your system?

How Long Do Adenovirus Infections Last? Most adenovirus infections last from a few days to a week or two. Severe infections may last longer and cause lingering symptoms, such as a cough.