Viral taxonomy — Which of the following virus(es) belongs to the family Caliciviridae (as classically tested in many MCQ banks)?

Difficulty: Medium

Correct Answer: Hepatitis E virus

Explanation:


Introduction / Context:
MCQ items on Caliciviridae often probe recognition of “calici-like” viruses associated with fecal–oral transmission and gastroenteritis. Historically, Hepatitis E virus (HEV) was grouped by some sources as a calici-like virus; modern taxonomy places HEV in the family Hepeviridae. Many legacy question banks, however, still key HEV to Caliciviridae-type properties.


Given Data / Assumptions:

  • HBV (Hepadnaviridae) and HDV (Deltavirus) are not Caliciviridae.
  • Legacy exam framing frequently lists HEV as the “calici-like” pick among hepatitis viruses.
  • The stem asks “belong/s to family caliciviridae,” reflecting older MCQ convention.


Concept / Approach:
Answer per conventional MCQ expectation: choose HEV as the option associated with calici-like classification in older literature. Provide clarifying note so learners are aware of updated taxonomy where HEV = Hepeviridae, while true Caliciviridae include noroviruses and sapoviruses.


Step-by-Step Solution:

Eliminate HBV (partially double-stranded DNA; Hepadnaviridae).Eliminate HDV (satellite virus; requires HBV; Deltavirus).Select HEV as the traditionally “calici-like” choice tested in many exams.


Verification / Alternative check:
Modern references designate Norovirus and Sapovirus as Caliciviridae; HEV is Hepeviridae. Exams may still expect HEV when asked in this dated format.


Why Other Options Are Wrong:

  • Hepatitis B virus: different family and genome type.
  • Hepatitis D virus: defective RNA virus, satellite of HBV.
  • All of these: incorrect because the first two are not caliciviruses by any scheme.


Common Pitfalls:
Memorizing only modern taxonomy without being aware of older MCQ conventions; always read the examiner’s likely framing.


Final Answer:
Hepatitis E virus

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