Animal viruses are infectious agents that replicate within the cells of animal hosts and are a central concern of veterinary medicine because of their impact on animal health, livestock production, and public health through zoonotic transmission. A virus consists of a nucleic-acid genome, either DNA or RNA, enclosed…
Animal viruses are infectious agents that replicate within the cells of animal hosts and are a central concern of veterinary medicine because of their impact on animal health, livestock production, and public health through zoonotic transmission. A virus consists of a nucleic-acid genome, either DNA or RNA, enclosed in a protein capsid and sometimes a lipid envelope, and it depends entirely on host-cell machinery to express its genes and produce progeny. Classification follows genome type, structure, and replication strategy, distinguishing families such as the orthomyxoviruses, coronaviruses, herpesviruses, and many others relevant to domestic and wild species. Influenza A viruses, for example, infect a wide host range that includes birds, swine, and camelids, and their segmented genomes allow reassortment that can generate strains capable of crossing species barriers. Coronaviruses likewise circulate in animal reservoirs and have demonstrated zoonotic potential, underscoring the interface between animal and human infection. Diagnosis in veterinary settings relies on serological assays that detect antibodies, antigen detection, and molecular methods that identify viral genetic material. Control strategies combine vaccination, biosecurity, surveillance, and movement restriction to limit spread within herds and flocks. Research emphasises host range, mechanisms of cross-species transmission, immune responses, and the development of vaccines and antivirals for veterinary use.
7 peer-reviewed articles, ranked by relevance. Each links to its DOI.
The 7 articles above have been cited 25 times in the scholarly literature. Citation data via OpenAlex and Crossref, updated Jun 2026.
A sample of recent works citing this journal's research on Animal Viruses, linking to each citing work.