What type of virus is known for causing gastroenteritis in mammals?

The correct answer is Norovirus, which is well-known for causing gastroenteritis in mammals, including humans. Norovirus is a highly contagious virus that can lead to inflammation of the stomach and intestines, resulting in symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal cramps. These symptoms can be particularly severe in vulnerable populations, such as the very young, elderly, or those with compromised immune systems.

The nature of Norovirus allows it to spread rapidly, particularly in communal settings like schools, nursing homes, and cruise ships. It is primarily transmitted through contaminated food or water, but can also spread through person-to-person contact and surfaces that have been contaminated.

Other viruses mentioned, such as Parvovirus and Rhabdovirus, typically do not cause gastroenteritis. Parvovirus primarily affects canines (e.g., canine parvovirus) and can lead to severe gastrointestinal disease in dogs, but it does not affect mammals in the same way as Norovirus in terms of human gastroenteritis. Rhabdovirus is most notably associated with rabies, which affects the central nervous system rather than causing gastroenteritis.

Retroviruses are a diverse group, with the most notable being the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV), which leads