Okavirus

Okavirus is a genus of viruses in the order Nidovirales, in the family Roniviridae. Okaviruses infect crustaceans, mostly prawns. There is currently only one species in this genus: the type species Gill-associated virus. Diseases associated with this genus include: GAV: reddening, biofouling with exoparasites, emaciation, massive mortality; YHV: yellow head, arrest of feeding. massive mortality. The name is derived from the 'Oka' or lymphoid organ in which the viruses are commonly detected and in which pathology occurs during acute infections. Lymphoid organs are anatomical structures common to penaeid shrimp. Group: ssRNA(+) Two virus species are recognized in this genus: Gill-associated virus and Yellow head virus. Both species were isolated from prawns. Viruses in Okavirus are enveloped, with bacilliform geometries, and helical symmetry. The diameter is around 20-30 nm. Genomes are linear and non-segmented, around 26kb in length. Entry into the host cell is achieved by attachment to host receptors, which mediates endocytosis. Replication follows the positive stranded RNA virus replication model. Positive stranded RNA virus transcription is the method of transcription. Crustaceans and mostly prawns serve as the natural host. Transmission routes are ingestion.