Discover the complete list of 104 scientifically recognized viruses that start with the letter “R.” These viruses infect a wide range of hosts, including humans, animals, plants, and even fungi. Many are important for their impact on global health, agriculture, and wildlife. Notably, this group includes deadly viruses like Rabies Virus and common human pathogens such as Rhinoviruses, as well as numerous plant viruses that affect crops worldwide.

Explore the detailed table below to understand the diversity and characteristics of these viruses.

Virus Name This column lists the official names of each virus to help you identify them clearly.

Classification Here, find the virus family and genus, along with whether they are DNA or RNA viruses. This helps show their scientific grouping and type.

Primary Hosts This column tells you which organisms the virus mainly infects, such as humans, animals, plants, or fungi.

Associated Illness/Symptoms See the common symptoms or diseases caused by each virus in its hosts. This makes it easier to understand their effects.

Transmission Method Learn how each virus spreads, such as through direct contact, insects, respiratory droplets, or mechanical means.

Descripción A concise description provides more context on each virus’s biology, impact, and relevance.

Viruses that start with R

Virus NameClassificationAffects Humans?SymptomsTransmission Method
Rabbit Fibroma VirusPoxviridae, Leporipoxvirus (DNA)NoBenign skin tumors (fibromas) in rabbitsDirect contact
Rabbit Hemorrhagic Disease VirusCaliciviridae, Lagovirus (RNA)NoAcute liver necrosis, hemorrhage, sudden death in rabbitsDirect contact, fomites, vectors
Rabbit PapillomavirusPapillomaviridae, Kappapapillomavirus (DNA)NoWarts or horn-like growths on rabbit skinDirect contact
Rabies VirusRhabdoviridae, Lyssavirus (RNA)YesFever, headache, progressive paralysis, hydrophobia, fatal encephalitisBite of infected animal (saliva)
Raccoon PolyomavirusPolyomaviridae, Betapolyomavirus (DNA)NoUnknown, possibly tumors or kidney disease in raccoonsUnknown, likely fecal-oral
Rachiplusia ou Multicapsid NucleopolyhedrovirusBaculoviridae, Alphabaculovirus (DNA)NoLethargy, liquefaction of host tissues in caterpillarsIngestion of contaminated foliage
Radish Mosaic VirusSecoviridae, Comovirus (RNA)NoMosaic patterns, mottling, distortion on radish leavesMechanical, possibly beetles
Radish Yellow Edge VirusBetaflexiviridae, Potexvirus (RNA)NoYellowing of leaf edges, stunted growth in radishesMechanical, sap
Ralstonia Phage RsoM1UCDMyoviridae (Bacteriophage)NoLysis of Ralstonia solanacearum bacteriaEnvironmental
Ranid Alphaherpesvirus 1Herpesviridae, Ranidherpesvirus (DNA)NoSkin lesions, organ necrosis, mortality in frogsWaterborne, direct contact
Ranid Alphaherpesvirus 2Herpesviridae, Ranidherpesvirus (DNA)NoSkin lesions, organ necrosis, mortality in frogsWaterborne, direct contact
Ranid Alphaherpesvirus 3Herpesviridae, Ranidherpesvirus (DNA)NoSkin lesions, organ necrosis, mortality in frogsWaterborne, direct contact
Ranid Betaherpesvirus 1Herpesviridae, Ranidherpesvirus (DNA)NoUnknown, likely mild or specific symptoms in frogsWaterborne, direct contact
Ranid Gammaherpesvirus 1Herpesviridae, Ranidherpesvirus (DNA)NoUnknown, likely mild or specific symptoms in frogsWaterborne, direct contact
Raphanus Virus ATobamoviridae (RNA)NoLeaf mottling, stunted growth in radishMechanical
Raspberry Bushy Dwarf VirusBromoviridae, Ilarvirus (RNA)NoBushy growth, leaf distortion, crumbly fruit in raspberriesPollen, seeds, mechanical
Raspberry Leaf Curl VirusLuteoviridae, Polerovirus (RNA)NoSevere leaf curling, stunted growth in raspberriesAphids
Raspberry Ringspot VirusSecoviridae, Nepovirus (RNA)NoChlorotic ringspots, leaf distortion, reduced yield in raspberriesNematodes
Raspberry Vein Chlorosis VirusClosteroviridae (RNA)NoYellowing of veins, leaf chlorosis in raspberriesAphids
Rat CoronavirusCoronaviridae, Betacoronavirus (RNA)NoRespiratory signs, enteritis, neurological issues in ratsFecal-oral, respiratory droplets
Rat CytomegalovirusHerpesviridae, Muromegalovirus (DNA)NoGenerally asymptomatic, sometimes enlarged salivary glands in ratsSaliva, urine, direct contact
Rat HepacivirusFlaviviridae, Hepacivirus (RNA)NoLiver inflammation (hepatitis) in ratsBlood, possibly fecal-oral
Rat ParvovirusParvoviridae, Protoparvovirus (DNA)NoDiarrhea, stunted growth, immune suppression in ratsFecal-oral, urine
Rattus Norvegicus Polyomavirus 1Polyomaviridae (DNA)NoUnknown, potentially tumors or kidney disease in Norway ratsUnknown
Rattus Pyctoris Polyomavirus 1Polyomaviridae (DNA)NoUnknown, potentially tumors or kidney disease in Himalayan ratsUnknown
Red Clover Necrotic Mosaic VirusTombusviridae, Dianthovirus (RNA)NoNecrotic spots, mosaic pattern, stunted growth in cloverMechanical, seed
Red Clover Vein Mosaic VirusPotyviridae, Carlavirus (RNA)NoVein clearing, mosaic pattern, leaf distortion in cloverAphids
Red Seabream IridovirusIridoviridae, Megalocytivirus (DNA)NoAnemia, splenomegaly, high mortality in Red Seabream fishWaterborne, direct contact
Remora-Associated Picorna-like VirusPicornaviridae (RNA)NoUnknown, possibly asymptomatic in Remora fishUnknown (aquatic)
ReovirusReoviridae, Orthoreovirus (RNA)Yes (mildly)Mild respiratory illness, mild gastroenteritis, asymptomaticRespiratory droplets, fecal-oral
Reptilian OrthoreovirusReoviridae, Orthoreovirus (RNA)NoRespiratory distress, enteritis, neurological signs in reptilesDirect contact, fecal-oral
Resistencia VirusArenaviridae, Mammarenavirus (RNA)YesHemorrhagic fever, neurological symptoms (in severe cases)Rodent excretions (aerosols, direct contact)
Resolado VirusOrthomyxoviridae, Thogotovirus (RNA)NoUnknown in natural hosts, possibly neurological signsTick-borne
Respiratory Syncytial VirusPneumoviridae, Orthopneumovirus (RNA)YesCold-like symptoms, bronchiolitis, pneumonia (especially in infants)Airborne droplets, direct contact
Reston EbolavirusFiloviridae, Ebolavirus (RNA)Yes (asymptomatic infection)Asymptomatic infection in humans; hemorrhagic fever in monkeysDirect contact with infected animals or their fluids
Reticuloendotheliosis VirusRetroviridae, Gammaretrovirus (RNA)NoImmunosuppression, anemia, tumors in birdsVertical (egg), direct contact
Rhesus Macaque Polyomavirus 1Polyomaviridae, Betapolyomavirus (DNA)NoKidney disease, potentially tumors in Rhesus macaquesUnknown, possibly urine or respiratory secretions
Rhesus Monkey RhadinovirusHerpesviridae, Lymphocryptovirus (DNA)NoLymphoma, immunosuppression in Rhesus macaquesDirect contact
Rhinolophus Affinis PicornavirusPicornaviridae (RNA)NoUnknown, likely asymptomatic in batsUnknown (bat-related)
Rhinolophus Ferrumequinum HantavirusHantaviridae, Orthohantavirus (RNA)NoUnknown, likely asymptomatic in batsUnknown (bat-related)
Rhinolophus Sinicus BetacoronavirusCoronaviridae, Betacoronavirus (RNA)NoUnknown, likely asymptomatic in bats (related to SARS)Unknown (bat-related)
Rhinovirus APicornaviridae, Enterovirus (RNA)YesCommon cold symptoms (runny nose, sore throat, sneezing)Airborne droplets, direct contact
Rhinovirus BPicornaviridae, Enterovirus (RNA)YesCommon cold symptoms (runny nose, sore throat, sneezing)Airborne droplets, direct contact
Rhinovirus CPicornaviridae, Enterovirus (RNA)YesCommon cold symptoms (runny nose, sore throat, sneezing)Airborne droplets, direct contact
Rhizidiomyces VirusMymonaviridae (Mycovirus, RNA)NoUnknown, likely affects fungal growth or pathogenicityFungal transmission (spores, hyphae)
Rhizobium Phage 16-3Siphoviridae (Bacteriophage)NoLysis of Rhizobium bacteriaEnvironmental
Rhizoctonia Solani Mitovirus 1Narnaviridae (Mycovirus, RNA)NoUnknown, likely affects fungal growth or pathogenicityFungal transmission (spores, hyphae)
Rhizoctonia Solani Virus 717Partitiviridae (Mycovirus, RNA)NoUnknown, likely affects fungal growth or pathogenicityFungal transmission (spores, hyphae)
Rhodococcus Phage RGL3Myoviridae (Bacteriophage)NoLysis of Rhodococcus equi bacteriaEnvironmental
Rhopalosiphum Padi VirusIflaviridae, Iflavirus (RNA)NoReduced longevity, fecundity, increased mortality in aphidsVertical (transovarial), direct contact
Ribgrass Mosaic VirusVirgaviridae, Tobamovirus (RNA)NoMosaic pattern, mottling, stunting in plants (e.g., Plantago major)Mechanical
Rice Black-Streaked Dwarf VirusReoviridae, Fijivirus (RNA)NoDwarfism, dark streaks, galls on rice plantsPlanthoppers
Rice Dwarf VirusReoviridae, Phytoreovirus (RNA)NoDwarfism, yellowing, leaf twisting in rice plantsLeafhoppers
Rice Gall Dwarf VirusReoviridae, Oryzavirus (RNA)NoDwarfism, galls, vein swelling in rice plantsLeafhoppers
Rice Grassy Stunt VirusGenomoviridae (DNA, unclassified)NoStunted growth, grassy appearance, yellowing in rice plantsBrown planthopper
Rice Hoja Blanca VirusPhenuiviridae, Tenuivirus (RNA)NoWhite or yellow streaks, rolled leaves, stunting in rice plantsPlanthoppers
Rice Necrosis Mosaic VirusPotyviridae, Macluravirus (RNA)NoNecrotic streaks, mosaic pattern, stunting in rice plantsFungus (Olpidium)
Rice Ragged Stunt VirusReoviridae, Oryzavirus (RNA)NoRagged leaves, stunted growth, dark galls in rice plantsBrown planthopper
Rice Stripe VirusPhenuiviridae, Tenuivirus (RNA)NoYellow or white stripes, stunting, leaf curling in rice plantsPlanthoppers
Rice Transitory Yellowing VirusVirgaviridae, Cytorhabdovirus (RNA)NoTemporary yellowing of leaves, stunting in rice plantsLeafhoppers
Rice Tungro Bacilliform VirusCaulimoviridae, Tungrovirus (DNA)NoStunting, yellow or orange leaves, reduced tillering in rice plantsLeafhoppers
Rice Tungro Spherical VirusSecoviridae, Waikavirus (RNA)NoStunting, yellow or orange leaves, reduced tillering in rice plantsLeafhoppers
Rice Yellow Mottle VirusTombusviridae, Sobemovirus (RNA)NoYellow mottling, stunting, reduced yield in rice plantsLeaf beetles, mechanical
Rift Valley Fever PhlebovirusPhenuiviridae, Phlebovirus (RNA)YesFever, flu-like symptoms, hemorrhagic fever, encephalitisMosquitoes, direct contact with infected animal fluids
Rinderpest MorbillivirusParamyxoviridae, Morbillivirus (RNA)NoFever, diarrhea, oral lesions, high mortality in cattle (eradicated)Direct contact, aerosols
Rio Bravo VirusFlaviviridae, Flavivirus (RNA)NoUnknown, likely asymptomatic in batsUnknown (bat-related)
Rio Grande Cichlid VirusIridoviridae, Ranavirus (DNA)NoSystemic disease, high mortality in Cichlid fishWaterborne, direct contact
Rio Grande VirusPeribunyaviridae, Orthobunyavirus (RNA)Yes (potential)Flu-like symptoms, fever, possibly neurological complicationsRodent excretions (aerosols)
Rocio VirusFlaviviridae, Flavivirus (RNA)YesFever, headache, vomiting, encephalitis, severe neurological damageMosquitoes
Rock Bream IridovirusIridoviridae, Megalocytivirus (DNA)NoAnemia, splenomegaly, high mortality in Rock Bream fishWaterborne, direct contact
Rock Creek VirusTogaviridae, Alphavirus (RNA)NoUnknown, likely asymptomatic in birds and mosquitoesMosquito-borne
Rodent Torque Teno VirusAnelloviridae, Alphatorquevirus (DNA)NoUnknown, likely asymptomatic in rodentsUnknown
Rodriguez VirusTogaviridae, Alphavirus (RNA)NoUnknown, likely asymptomatic in rodents and mosquitoesMosquito-borne
Rosellinia Necatrix Partitivirus 2Partitiviridae (Mycovirus, RNA)NoUnknown, likely affects fungal growth or pathogenicityFungal transmission (hyphae)
Rosellinia Necatrix Victorivirus 1Totiviridae (Mycovirus, RNA)NoUnknown, likely affects fungal growth or pathogenicityFungal transmission (hyphae)
Rose Spring Dwarf-Associated VirusLuteoviridae (RNA)NoStunted growth, distorted leaves, reduced flowering in rosesAphids
Ross River VirusTogaviridae, Alphavirus (RNA)YesArthritis (joint pain), rash, fever, fatigueMosquitoes
Rosy Barb PolyomavirusPolyomaviridae (DNA)NoUnknown, likely asymptomatic in Rosy barb fishUnknown
Rotavirus AReoviridae, Rotavirus (RNA)YesSevere watery diarrhea, vomiting, fever, abdominal painFecal-oral
Rotavirus BReoviridae, Rotavirus (RNA)YesSevere watery diarrhea, vomiting, fever, abdominal painFecal-oral
Rotavirus CReoviridae, Rotavirus (RNA)YesSevere watery diarrhea, vomiting, fever, abdominal painFecal-oral
Rotavirus DReoviridae, Rotavirus (RNA)YesSevere watery diarrhea, vomiting, fever, abdominal painFecal-oral
Rotavirus FReoviridae, Rotavirus (RNA)YesSevere watery diarrhea, vomiting, fever, abdominal painFecal-oral
Rotavirus GReoviridae, Rotavirus (RNA)YesSevere watery diarrhea, vomiting, fever, abdominal painFecal-oral
Rotavirus HReoviridae, Rotavirus (RNA)YesSevere watery diarrhea, vomiting, fever, abdominal painFecal-oral
Rotavirus IReoviridae, Rotavirus (RNA)YesSevere watery diarrhea, vomiting, fever, abdominal painFecal-oral
Rotavirus JReoviridae, Rotavirus (RNA)YesSevere watery diarrhea, vomiting, fever, abdominal painFecal-oral
Roughtail Stingray PicornavirusPicornaviridae (RNA)NoUnknown, likely asymptomatic in Roughtail StingraysUnknown (aquatic)
Rous Sarcoma VirusRetroviridae, Alpharetrovirus (RNA)NoSarcomas (tumors), immunosuppression in chickensVertical (egg), direct contact
Rovnako VirusFlaviviridae, Flavivirus (RNA)NoUnknown, likely asymptomatic in ticksTick-borne
Royal Farm VirusTogaviridae, Alphavirus (RNA)NoUnknown, likely asymptomatic in birds and mosquitoesMosquito-borne
Rubber-Associated Virus 1Unclassified (likely plant virus, RNA)NoUnknown, possibly asymptomatic in rubber plantsUnknown (plant)
Rubella VirusTogaviridae, Rubivirus (RNA)YesRash, fever, swollen lymph nodes, congenital rubella syndromeAirborne droplets
Rubus Chlorotic Mottle VirusSecoviridae, Nepovirus (RNA)NoChlorotic mottling, leaf distortion in Rubus plantsNematodes
Rudbeckia-Associated VirusUnclassified (likely plant virus)NoUnknown, possibly asymptomatic or mild symptoms in RudbeckiaUnknown (plant)
Rudong HantavirusHantaviridae, Orthohantavirus (RNA)Yes (potential)Hemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome (HFRS) in humansRodent excretions (aerosols)
Rugose Newt ReovirusReoviridae, Orthoreovirus (RNA)NoUnknown, possibly mild or systemic symptoms in newtsWaterborne, direct contact
Rugose Sapelovirus APicornaviridae, Sapelovirus (RNA)NoUnknown, possibly mild or enteric symptoms in swineFecal-oral
Rukutama VirusPeribunyaviridae, Orthobunyavirus (RNA)NoUnknown, likely asymptomatic in mosquitoes and other hostsMosquito-borne
Runde VirusFlaviviridae, Flavivirus (RNA)NoUnknown, likely asymptomatic in ticks and possibly seabirdsTick-borne
Rush Skeletonweed Virus AUnclassified (likely plant virus)NoYellowing, mosaic patterns, stunting in plantsUnknown (plant)
Russian Spring-Summer Encephalitis VirusFlaviviridae, Flavivirus (RNA)YesFever, headache, nausea, stiff neck, encephalitis, paralysisTick-borne
Rustrela VirusFlaviviridae, Rustrelavirus (RNA)NoNon-suppurative encephalitis in wild mammals (e.g., hares)Unknown, possibly zoonotic
Ryegrass Mosaic VirusPotyviridae, Ryegrass mosaic virus (RNA)NoMosaic pattern, streaks, reduced growth in ryegrassMechanical

Descriptions

Rabbit Fibroma Virus
A DNA virus causing benign skin tumors, or fibromas, in rabbits. It is not known to affect humans and spreads through direct contact among infected animals, representing a common veterinary concern for rabbit breeders.
Rabbit Hemorrhagic Disease Virus
A highly contagious and often fatal RNA virus affecting rabbits. It causes severe internal bleeding and organ damage, leading to sudden death. This virus poses a significant threat to rabbit populations worldwide, with no human impact.
Rabbit Papillomavirus
A DNA virus that induces benign skin tumors, or papillomas (warts), on rabbits. These growths can resemble horns, giving rise to the “horned rabbit” appearance. It does not affect humans and spreads via direct contact among rabbits.
Rabies Virus
A deadly RNA virus causing rabies, a severe neurological disease in mammals, including humans. Transmitted through the bite of an infected animal, it leads to inflammation of the brain and spinal cord, almost always fatal if left untreated before symptoms appear.
Raccoon Polyomavirus
A DNA virus found in raccoons, belonging to the Polyomaviridae family. Its specific impact on raccoons is still under investigation, though polyomaviruses in other species can cause tumors or kidney issues. It is not known to affect humans.
Rachiplusia ou Multicapsid Nucleopolyhedrovirus
An insect-specific DNA virus that infects moth and butterfly caterpillars, including the cabbage looper. It causes a fatal disease where the caterpillar’s body liquefies, aiding virus spread. This virus is widely studied for its potential as a biological pesticide.
Radish Mosaic Virus
An RNA virus that infects radish plants, causing a characteristic mosaic-like pattern, mottling, and distortion on the leaves. It can significantly reduce crop yield and is typically spread through mechanical means or possibly by certain beetle species.
Radish Yellow Edge Virus
An RNA virus primarily affecting radish plants. It causes a distinctive yellowing along the edges of the leaves and can lead to stunted plant growth, impacting radish cultivation. Transmission typically occurs through mechanical means or plant sap.
Ralstonia Phage RsoM1UCD
A bacteriophage (virus that infects bacteria) belonging to the Myoviridae family. It specifically targets and lyses *Ralstonia solanacearum*, a plant pathogenic bacterium responsible for bacterial wilt disease in many crops. It is harmless to humans.
Ranid Alphaherpesvirus 1
A DNA virus that infects frogs (ranids), causing a range of diseases from skin lesions to severe systemic infections and high mortality rates. These viruses are significant pathogens in amphibian populations globally but do not affect humans.
Ranid Alphaherpesvirus 2
A DNA virus that infects frogs (ranids), causing a range of diseases from skin lesions to severe systemic infections and high mortality rates. These viruses are significant pathogens in amphibian populations globally but do not affect humans.
Ranid Alphaherpesvirus 3
A DNA virus that infects frogs (ranids), causing a range of diseases from skin lesions to severe systemic infections and high mortality rates. These viruses are significant pathogens in amphibian populations globally but do not affect humans.
Ranid Betaherpesvirus 1
A DNA virus found in frogs (ranids). While specific symptoms are less characterized than for ranaviruses, it is a herpesvirus typically associated with latent infections that may reactivate under stress, potentially causing mild to moderate symptoms in frogs. It does not affect humans.
Ranid Gammaherpesvirus 1
A DNA virus that infects frogs (ranids). Like other herpesviruses, it often establishes lifelong latent infections and may cause disease under specific conditions. Its precise symptoms in frogs are still under investigation, and it poses no known risk to humans.
Raphanus Virus A
An RNA plant virus that infects radish plants. It typically causes leaf mottling, discoloration, and can lead to stunted plant growth, impacting the overall health and yield of radish crops. This virus is spread mechanically and does not affect humans.
Raspberry Bushy Dwarf Virus
An RNA virus affecting raspberries and other Rubus species. It causes symptoms like bushy growth, leaf distortion, and crumbly or misshapen fruit, significantly reducing crop quality and yield. It is primarily transmitted through pollen and seeds.
Raspberry Leaf Curl Virus
An RNA plant virus that causes a debilitating disease in raspberries. Infected plants exhibit severe upward curling of leaves, reduced fruit production, and overall stunted growth. It is efficiently transmitted by specific aphid species, but poses no human risk.
Raspberry Ringspot Virus
An RNA virus that infects raspberries and other fruit crops. It causes distinctive chlorotic ringspots on leaves, leaf distortion, and can lead to significant reductions in fruit yield and quality. It is transmitted by soil-dwelling nematodes.
Raspberry Vein Chlorosis Virus
An RNA virus that primarily infects raspberry plants. It is characterized by the yellowing (chlorosis) of leaf veins, which can weaken the plant and reduce fruit yield. This virus is transmitted by aphids but does not affect humans.
Rat Coronavirus
An RNA virus that infects rats, causing a range of symptoms including respiratory distress, gastrointestinal issues (enteritis), and sometimes neurological signs. It is highly contagious among rat populations but poses no known threat to human health.
Rat Cytomegalovirus
A DNA virus that typically causes persistent, asymptomatic infections in rats. It belongs to the herpesvirus family, and while it may occasionally cause an immune response or enlarged salivary glands, it is not known to cause disease in humans.
Rat Hepacivirus
An RNA virus found in rats, closely related to human hepatitis C virus. It causes liver inflammation (hepatitis) in infected rats, making it a valuable model for studying liver diseases. Currently, there is no evidence of human infection.
Rat Parvovirus
A small DNA virus that infects rats, causing various symptoms including diarrhea, stunted growth, and immune suppression, especially in young or immunocompromised animals. It is highly contagious among rat colonies but does not affect human health.
Rattus Norvegicus Polyomavirus 1
A DNA virus identified in Norway rats (*Rattus norvegicus*). Like other polyomaviruses, its specific effects are under study, but it may be associated with tumor development or kidney issues in its host. It is not known to affect humans.
Rattus Pyctoris Polyomavirus 1
A DNA virus found in Himalayan rats (*Rattus pyctoris*). Its exact pathogenic effects are still being investigated, though polyomaviruses are generally associated with persistent infections and potential tumor development. No known human health implications exist.
Red Clover Necrotic Mosaic Virus
An RNA virus that infects red clover and other legumes. It causes necrotic (dead) spots and a mosaic pattern on leaves, leading to stunted plant growth and reduced forage yield. It is spread mechanically and through seeds, not humans.
Red Clover Vein Mosaic Virus
An RNA virus that infects red clover and other legumes, causing characteristic vein clearing, a mosaic pattern on leaves, and sometimes leaf distortion. This virus is transmitted efficiently by aphids, impacting forage quality and yield. It does not affect humans.
Red Seabream Iridovirus
A large DNA virus that causes a severe systemic disease in Red Seabream and other marine fish, leading to high mortality rates in aquaculture. Symptoms include anemia, enlarged spleen, and gill pallor. It is not known to affect humans.
Remora-Associated Picorna-like Virus
An RNA virus tentatively classified as picorna-like, associated with remora fish. Its specific impact on remoras is not well understood, and it is likely asymptomatic. There is no known risk or association with human health.
Reovirus
A general term for a group of RNA viruses. While some reoviruses can cause mild respiratory or gastrointestinal illness in humans, they are often asymptomatic. They are primarily known for infecting a wide range of vertebrates and invertebrates.
Reptilian Orthoreovirus
An RNA virus that infects various reptile species, causing a range of symptoms including respiratory issues, gastrointestinal inflammation, and sometimes neurological signs. It is a significant pathogen in captive reptile collections but does not affect humans.
Resistencia Virus
An RNA virus belonging to the Arenaviridae family, found in rodents. It is a potential cause of hemorrhagic fever in humans, similar to other rodent-borne arenaviruses, though human cases are rare. Transmission occurs via contact with infected rodent excretions.
Resolado Virus
An RNA virus classified within the Thogotovirus genus, primarily found in ticks. While its natural host and pathogenicity are not fully understood, other thogotoviruses can cause disease in livestock. There is no known human disease associated with this virus.
Respiratory Syncytial Virus
A common RNA virus that causes respiratory infections, particularly in young children and infants, where it can lead to severe bronchiolitis and pneumonia. In adults, it typically causes mild, cold-like symptoms. It is highly contagious via respiratory droplets.
Reston Ebolavirus
An RNA virus discovered in monkeys, belonging to the Ebolavirus genus. While it causes severe, fatal hemorrhagic fever in non-human primates, human infections are typically asymptomatic. It is transmitted through direct contact with infected animal fluids.
Reticuloendotheliosis Virus
An RNA virus that primarily infects birds, causing a range of diseases including immunosuppression, anemia, and various types of tumors. It can significantly impact poultry health and production but is not known to affect humans.
Rhesus Macaque Polyomavirus 1
A DNA virus found in rhesus macaques. It has been associated with kidney disease and, like other polyomaviruses, may contribute to tumor development in these primates. This virus is not known to infect or cause disease in humans.
Rhesus Monkey Rhadinovirus
A DNA virus that infects rhesus macaques, belonging to the herpesvirus family. It is known to cause lymphoma and immunosuppression in these primates, similar to some human herpesviruses. It does not affect human health directly.
Rhinolophus Affinis Picornavirus
An RNA virus identified in the Greater horseshoe bat (*Rhinolophus affinis*). While it belongs to the Picornaviridae family, known for causing various diseases, its specific impact on bats and potential for human spillover are currently unknown.
Rhinolophus Ferrumequinum Hantavirus
An RNA virus found in the Greater horseshoe bat (*Rhinolophus ferrumequinum*). While hantaviruses typically cause severe disease in humans, this specific bat-associated strain has no known human pathogenicity and is likely asymptomatic in its bat host.
Rhinolophus Sinicus Betacoronavirus
An RNA virus identified in Chinese horseshoe bats (*Rhinolophus sinicus*), notable for its close genetic relation to SARS-CoV. While it’s a bat-borne coronavirus, there’s no direct evidence it causes disease in humans or bats.
Rhinovirus A
An RNA virus responsible for a significant portion of human common colds. It primarily infects the upper respiratory tract, causing symptoms like runny nose, sore throat, and sneezing. Rhinoviruses are highly contagious and spread easily.
Rhinovirus B
An RNA virus responsible for a significant portion of human common colds. It primarily infects the upper respiratory tract, causing symptoms like runny nose, sore throat, and sneezing. Rhinoviruses are highly contagious and spread easily.
Rhinovirus C
An RNA virus responsible for a significant portion of human common colds. It primarily infects the upper respiratory tract, causing symptoms like runny nose, sore throat, and sneezing. Rhinoviruses are highly contagious and spread easily.
Rhizidiomyces Virus
An RNA virus (mycovirus) that infects the aquatic fungus *Rhizidiomyces*. Mycoviruses often do not cause obvious disease symptoms in their fungal hosts, but they can influence fungal growth or pathogenicity. It has no impact on human health.
Rhizobium Phage 16-3
A bacteriophage that infects *Rhizobium* bacteria, which are important for nitrogen fixation in plants. This phage can lyse its bacterial host, potentially impacting agricultural soil health. It is harmless to humans and other eukaryotes.
Rhizoctonia Solani Mitovirus 1
An RNA virus (mycovirus) that infects the plant pathogenic fungus *Rhizoctonia solani*. It is usually vertically transmitted within the fungus and can potentially alter the fungus’s virulence or growth. It poses no direct threat to humans.
Rhizoctonia Solani Virus 717
An RNA virus (mycovirus) that infects the soil-borne plant pathogenic fungus *Rhizoctonia solani*. Mycoviruses like this can influence the fungal host’s traits, including its pathogenicity to plants. It has no known effect on humans.
Rhodococcus Phage RGL3
A bacteriophage (virus infecting bacteria) that targets *Rhodococcus equi*, a bacterium known to cause pneumonia in foals. This phage may have potential applications in controlling bacterial infections. It is completely harmless to humans.
Rhopalosiphum Padi Virus
An RNA virus that infects the bird cherry-oat aphid (*Rhopalosiphum padi*). It causes reduced lifespan, lower reproduction rates, and increased mortality in infected aphids. This virus is used in biocontrol studies and does not affect humans.
Ribgrass Mosaic Virus
An RNA plant virus that infects a wide range of plants, including ribgrass (*Plantago major*). It causes characteristic mosaic patterns, mottling, and stunting of growth. Transmission occurs easily through mechanical means. It does not affect humans.
Rice Black-Streaked Dwarf Virus
An RNA virus that causes a severe disease in rice, corn, and other cereals. Infected plants exhibit extreme dwarfism, dark streaks on leaves, and tumor-like galls. It is transmitted by planthoppers and can cause significant crop losses.
Rice Dwarf Virus
An RNA virus that severely affects rice plants, leading to significant crop losses. Infected plants show pronounced dwarfism, yellowing, and twisted leaves. It is transmitted by leafhoppers and poses no threat to human health.
Rice Gall Dwarf Virus
An RNA virus that infects rice plants, causing severe dwarfism, dark green leaves, and characteristic galls or swellings on veins of leaves and stems. It is transmitted by leafhoppers and significantly impacts rice production. It does not affect humans.
Rice Grassy Stunt Virus
A DNA virus that causes a severe disease in rice, characterized by stunted growth, a “grassy” appearance, and yellowing of leaves. It is transmitted by the brown planthopper and can lead to significant yield losses. It does not affect humans.
Rice Hoja Blanca Virus
An RNA virus that causes “white leaf” disease in rice, characterized by white or yellow streaks on leaves, rolled leaves, and stunted growth. It is transmitted by planthoppers and poses a major threat to rice cultivation, especially in the Americas.
Rice Necrosis Mosaic Virus
An RNA virus that causes necrosis (tissue death) and a mosaic pattern on rice leaves, leading to stunting of the plant. It is unique in being transmitted by the soil-borne fungus *Olpidium oryzae*. It does not affect humans.
Rice Ragged Stunt Virus
An RNA virus causing “ragged stunt” disease in rice. Symptoms include ragged, twisted leaves, stunted growth, and vein swellings. It is transmitted by the brown planthopper and can cause significant reductions in rice yield. It is not a human pathogen.
Rice Stripe Virus
An RNA virus that causes “stripe disease” in rice, characterized by distinct yellow or white stripes on leaves, stunting, and leaf curling. It is transmitted by planthoppers and is a major disease in Asian rice-growing regions. It does not affect humans.
Rice Transitory Yellowing Virus
An RNA virus that causes a transitory yellowing disease in rice, where leaves temporarily turn yellow before recovering or dying. It can also cause stunting. This virus is transmitted by leafhoppers and can impact rice yields. It does not affect humans.
Rice Tungro Bacilliform Virus
A DNA virus that, along with Rice tungro spherical virus, causes tungro disease in rice. It leads to severe stunting, yellow or orange discoloration of leaves, and reduced tillering. It is transmitted by leafhoppers and is a major rice pathogen.
Rice Tungro Spherical Virus
An RNA virus that, when co-infecting with Rice tungro bacilliform virus, causes the devastating tungro disease in rice. It leads to severe stunting and discoloration. It is transmitted by leafhoppers and does not affect human health.
Rice Yellow Mottle Virus
An RNA virus causing yellow mottling disease in rice, characterized by yellow streaks and mottling on leaves, leading to stunted growth and reduced grain yield. It is transmitted by leaf beetles and also mechanically. It poses no threat to humans.
Rift Valley Fever Phlebovirus
An RNA virus causing Rift Valley fever, a severe disease affecting livestock and humans. Symptoms in humans range from mild flu-like illness to severe hemorrhagic fever or encephalitis. It is transmitted by mosquitoes and contact with infected infected animals.
Rinderpest Morbillivirus
An RNA virus that caused rinderpest, a highly contagious and fatal disease of cattle and other cloven-hoofed animals. It was officially declared eradicated in 2011, making it only the second infectious disease to be globally eliminated. It did not affect humans.
Rio Bravo Virus
An RNA virus belonging to the Flavivirus genus, isolated from bats. While related to viruses that cause human diseases like dengue, Rio Bravo virus is not known to cause disease in humans and is likely asymptomatic in its natural bat hosts.
Rio Grande Cichlid Virus
A large DNA virus that causes a systemic and often fatal disease in cichlid fish. It belongs to the Ranavirus genus, known for affecting amphibians, reptiles, and fish. It is not known to affect humans and spreads in aquatic environments.
Rio Grande Virus
An RNA virus belonging to the Orthobunyavirus genus, found in rodents. While human cases are rare, it is considered a potential cause of febrile illness, with symptoms resembling the flu. Transmission occurs through aerosols from infected rodent excretions.
Rocio Virus
An RNA virus that causes Rocio encephalitis, a severe neurological disease in humans, primarily found in Brazil. Symptoms include high fever, headache, and vomiting, progressing to encephalitis with potential for severe brain damage. It is transmitted by mosquitoes.
Rock Bream Iridovirus
A large DNA virus that causes a highly fatal systemic disease in Rock Bream and other marine fish, particularly in aquaculture. Symptoms include anemia, enlarged spleen, and gill pallor. It does not affect human health.
Rock Creek Virus
An RNA virus belonging to the Alphavirus genus, primarily found in mosquitoes and birds. It is not known to cause disease in humans and is largely studied for its ecological role in avian populations. Its specific impact on its natural hosts is under investigation.
Rodent Torque Teno Virus
A DNA virus identified in various rodent species. Torque teno viruses are common and generally cause persistent, asymptomatic infections. While widespread in rodents, this specific virus is not known to cause disease in humans.
Rodriguez Virus
An RNA virus belonging to the Alphavirus genus, isolated from mosquitoes and rodents. While other alphaviruses can cause human disease, Rodriguez virus is not known to affect humans and is likely asymptomatic in its natural hosts.
Rosellinia Necatrix Partitivirus 2
An RNA virus (mycovirus) that infects the plant pathogenic fungus *Rosellinia necatrix*, which causes white root rot. Mycoviruses can influence the fungus’s virulence or growth. It does not infect or affect humans.
Rosellinia Necatrix Victorivirus 1
An RNA virus (mycovirus) that infects the plant pathogenic fungus *Rosellinia necatrix*. Like other mycoviruses, it can alter the fungus’s characteristics, potentially affecting its ability to cause white root rot in plants. It has no known human impact.
Rose Spring Dwarf-Associated Virus
An RNA virus associated with rose spring dwarf disease. It causes significant stunting, distortion of leaves, and reduced flowering in rose plants, impacting ornamental value. It is transmitted by aphids and does not affect human health.
Ross River Virus
An RNA virus that causes Ross River fever, a common mosquito-borne disease in Australia and Pacific islands. Symptoms include debilitating joint pain (arthritis), rash, fever, and fatigue, which can persist for months. It is not generally fatal.
Rosy Barb Polyomavirus
A DNA virus identified in Rosy barb fish (*Pethia conchonius*). Polyomaviruses are known to cause persistent infections, often asymptomatic, but can sometimes lead to tumors or other diseases in their hosts. It is not known to affect humans.
Rotavirus A
An RNA virus that is a common cause of severe watery diarrhea, vomiting, fever, and abdominal pain in infants and young children worldwide. It is highly contagious and spreads through the fecal-oral route. Vaccines are available to prevent infection.
Rotavirus B
An RNA virus that is a common cause of severe watery diarrhea, vomiting, fever, and abdominal pain in infants and young children worldwide. It is highly contagious and spreads through the fecal-oral route. Vaccines are available to prevent infection.
Rotavirus C
An RNA virus that is a common cause of severe watery diarrhea, vomiting, fever, and abdominal pain in infants and young children worldwide. It is highly contagious and spreads through the fecal-oral route. Vaccines are available to prevent infection.
Rotavirus D
An RNA virus that is a common cause of severe watery diarrhea, vomiting, fever, and abdominal pain in infants and young children worldwide. It is highly contagious and spreads through the fecal-oral route. Vaccines are available to prevent infection.
Rotavirus F
An RNA virus that is a common cause of severe watery diarrhea, vomiting, fever, and abdominal pain in infants and young children worldwide. It is highly contagious and spreads through the fecal-oral route. Vaccines are available to prevent infection.
Rotavirus G
An RNA virus that is a common cause of severe watery diarrhea, vomiting, fever, and abdominal pain in infants and young children worldwide. It is highly contagious and spreads through the fecal-oral route. Vaccines are available to prevent infection.
Rotavirus H
An RNA virus that is a common cause of severe watery diarrhea, vomiting, fever, and abdominal pain in infants and young children worldwide. It is highly contagious and spreads through the fecal-oral route. Vaccines are available to prevent infection.
Rotavirus I
An RNA virus that is a common cause of severe watery diarrhea, vomiting, fever, and abdominal pain in infants and young children worldwide. It is highly contagious and spreads through the fecal-oral route. Vaccines are available to prevent infection.
Rotavirus J
An RNA virus that is a common cause of severe watery diarrhea, vomiting, fever, and abdominal pain in infants and young children worldwide. It is highly contagious and spreads through the fecal-oral route. Vaccines are available to prevent infection.
Roughtail Stingray Picornavirus
An RNA virus identified in Roughtail Stingrays (*Dasyatis centroura*). While belonging to the Picornaviridae family, its specific impact on stingrays is not well understood, and it is likely asymptomatic. It is not known to affect human health.
Rous Sarcoma Virus
An RNA virus that causes sarcomas (malignant tumors) in chickens. It was the first retrovirus discovered that could cause cancer and has been a crucial model in cancer research. It does not naturally infect or cause disease in humans.
Rovnako Virus
An RNA virus belonging to the Flavivirus genus, isolated from ticks. While other flaviviruses cause significant human diseases, Rovnako virus is not known to cause disease in humans and is likely asymptomatic in its tick hosts.
Royal Farm Virus
An RNA virus belonging to the Alphavirus genus, identified in mosquitoes and birds. Like other alphaviruses, it is transmitted by mosquitoes. It is not known to cause disease in humans and its specific impact on its natural hosts is under investigation.
Rubber-Associated Virus 1
A newly identified virus associated with rubber trees. Its exact classification and pathogenic effects on rubber plants are still under investigation. Plant viruses do not typically cross over to infect humans, and this one has no known human impact.
Rubella Virus
An RNA virus that causes rubella, also known as German measles, in humans. It typically causes a mild rash, fever, and swollen lymph nodes. However, infection during pregnancy can lead to severe birth defects (congenital rubella syndrome).
Rubus Chlorotic Mottle Virus
An RNA virus that infects *Rubus* species, including raspberries and blackberries. It causes chlorotic mottling (yellowish spots) and distortion of leaves, impacting fruit yield and quality. It is transmitted by soil-dwelling nematodes.
Rudbeckia-Associated Virus
A virus associated with Rudbeckia plants. Its classification and effects are not yet well-characterized, but it is presumed to be a plant virus with no known capacity to infect or cause disease in humans.
Rudong Hantavirus
An RNA virus belonging to the Hantaviridae family, carried by rodents like the striped field mouse. It is a potential cause of Hemorrhagic Fever with Renal Syndrome (HFRS) in humans, a severe and sometimes fatal disease. Transmission is via rodent excretions.
Rugose Newt Reovirus
An RNA virus that infects rugose newts. Like other reoviruses, it may cause respiratory or gastrointestinal issues, or systemic infections in amphibians. It is studied for amphibian health but has no known impact on human health.
Rugose Sapelovirus A
An RNA virus belonging to the Picornaviridae family, identified in swine. Its specific pathogenic effects are not well-characterized, but other picornaviruses often cause enteric or mild respiratory symptoms. It is not known to cause disease in humans.
Rukutama Virus
An RNA virus identified in mosquitoes. While it belongs to a family that includes human pathogens, Rukutama virus is not known to cause disease in humans. Its specific impact on its natural hosts is currently under investigation.
Runde Virus
An RNA virus belonging to the Flavivirus genus, isolated from ticks on seabirds. While related to human pathogens like yellow fever virus, Runde virus is not known to cause disease in humans and is likely asymptomatic in its natural hosts.
Rush Skeletonweed Virus A
A virus identified in rush skeletonweed plants. Its specific classification and pathogenic effects are not extensively documented. As a plant virus, it is not known to infect or cause any disease in humans.
Russian Spring-Summer Encephalitis Virus
An RNA virus causing Russian spring-summer encephalitis (RSSE), a severe tick-borne disease in humans. Symptoms range from fever and headache to severe neurological complications like encephalitis, meningitis, and permanent paralysis. It is endemic to forested areas.
Rustrela Virus
An RNA virus that causes inflammation of the brain (non-suppurative encephalitis) in wild mammals, such as European hares. It is an emerging pathogen in wildlife, but there is no known evidence of human infection or disease caused by this virus.
Ryegrass Mosaic Virus
An RNA virus that infects ryegrass, causing a characteristic mosaic pattern, yellow streaks, and reduced growth, impacting forage yield and quality. It is primarily transmitted through mechanical means. This virus does not affect human health.
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