herpesvirus

one of a group of DNA-containing viruses causing latent infections in animals (including humans). The herpesviruses are the causative agents of HERPES and chickenpox. The group also includes the CYTOMEGALOVIRUS and EPSTEIN-BARR VIRUS . Herpesvirus simiae (virus B) causes an infection in monkeys similar to herpes simplex, but when transmitted to humans it can produce fatal encephalitis.