arenavirus

noun

Meaning

A group of viruses typically transmitted to humans through contact with the urine, droppings, or saliva of infected rodents.

Examples

  • Lassa fever is a well-known disease caused by a specific type of arenavirus.
  • Researchers are studying how this arenavirus spreads within rodent populations to prevent human transmission.

Synonyms: virus, pathogen, zoonosis, viral agent