Poxviridae in human disease: Which listed poxvirus genera include species that cause disease in humans?

Introduction:
Poxviruses are large, enveloped DNA viruses with complex symmetry. Several genera contain pathogens relevant to human health. Recognizing which genera matter clinically helps guide differential diagnosis of vesiculopustular eruptions and nodular lesions.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Orthopoxvirus includes variola (smallpox), vaccinia, monkeypox.
• Parapoxvirus includes orf virus (zoonosis from sheep/goats).
• Molluscipoxvirus includes molluscum contagiosum virus.

Concept / Approach:
All three listed genera contain human pathogens—some historically devastating (variola), some re-emerging (monkeypox), and some producing benign but contagious lesions (molluscum). Thus, the comprehensive correct selection is “All of these.”

Step-by-Step Solution:
Match each genus to a human disease. Orthopox → smallpox/monkeypox; Parapox → orf; Molluscipox → molluscum contagiosum. Confirm multiple genera are involved. Select “All of these.”

Verification / Alternative check:
Clinical dermatology references list characteristic lesion morphologies for each genus and document human cases globally.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Any single genus is incomplete; “None” is contradicted by well-known human infections.

Common Pitfalls:
Assuming parapox viruses are purely veterinary; orf is a classical occupational zoonosis in humans.

Final Answer:
All of these.