Definition

A type of virus that has RNA as its genetic material and is known for causing influenza and other respiratory illnesses.

Example

The orthomyxovirus is responsible for seasonal flu outbreaks.

Conversation

Did you hear about the orthomyxovirus that caused the flu outbreak last winter?

Yeah, it was pretty serious; a lot of people got sick.

I read that it's part of the family of viruses that includes influenza.

Exactly! It's fascinating how these viruses adapt and spread.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Orthomyxovirus → It is formed from "ortho-" (from Greek "orthos", meaning straight or correct), "myxo-" (from Greek "mukos", meaning mucus), and "virus" (from Latin, meaning poison or slimy liquid). The term refers to a virus that is correctly classified within the mucus-producing category of viruses.

Memory Tip

Think of 'straight' or 'correct' ('ortho-') relating to a virus that is associated with 'mucus' ('myxo-'), which helps you remember that 'orthomyxovirus' is a type of virus linked to mucus.

Visually Confused Words