Orthomyxoviridae family

Influenza viruses belong to the orthomyxoviridae family. There are three types of influenza virus, named A, B and C (from the chronological order of their characterization). A multitude of subtypes have been characterized for type A virus. These have arisen from the antigenic cross-reactivities of the surface glycoproteins (see below). No subtypes have been identified for types B and C. Influenza type C virus is significantly different to the other two and in this work only influenza viruses A and B are discussed. Influenza virus particles are spherical in shape, approximately 100 nm in diameter. A schematic diagram of the virus is shown in Fig. 1. 

Influenza viruses are members of the orthomyxoviridae family which are further classified, on serological differences, into three distinct types, viz. A, B, and C. The human population appears to be most affected by types A and B [17], with the elderly, the very young and those with existing conditions such as chronic pulmonary and heart disease being most susceptible. 

Respiratory illnesses commonly known as colds and flu account for more than half of all acute illnesses in the United States each year. Influenza viruses belong to the orthomyxoviridae family and are a major source of... 

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