Human Vampiric Virus

The Human Vampiric Virus (HVV) is a mutagenic mononega virus that causes a condition colloquially known as vampirism. This virus infects nearly every living cell in the human body, with the exception of red blood cells, and causes dramatic physiological and behavioral changes in its host.
HVV is transmitted through bodily fluids and has properties similar to rabies, mumps, and measles. Unlike most viruses, HVV infects host cells via endocytosis, allowing cells to continue normal processes while also producing viral clones. This unique characteristic, combined with its rapid replication cycle, makes HVV highly successful.
The virus works through a process similar to horizontal gene transfer (HGT), resulting in significant anatomical and physiological changes in the host. These changes include enhanced sensory abilities, increased strength and speed, altered brain structure, and a physiological dependence on human blood for survival. Infection with HVV leads to a condition that closely mirrors the characteristics of vampires in folklore and mythology. While not supernatural in nature, the abilities and limitations of infected individuals (referred to as vampires) are often mistaken for supernatural powers.
The virus is believed to have existed for millennia, with its prevalence waxing and waning throughout history. Its origin may be linked to insect parasites of vampire bats, though this remains a hypothesis.

Transmission & Vectors

• Transmitted through bodily fluids
• Primarily spread through bites from infected individuals
• Infection occurs via endocytosis of host cells

Causes

• Infection by the Human Vampiric Virus (HVV)

Symptoms

Initial (0-24 hours post-infection):

• Headache
• Fever
• Chills
• Rapid heart rate
• Severe thirst
• Excessive sweating
• Frequent urination

Vampiric Coma (24-48 hours post-infection):

• Unconsciousness
• Erratic pulse and breathing
• Dilated pupils
• Profuse sweating
• Significant weight loss

Post-Transformation:

• Confusion and paranoia (initial)
• Thirst for human blood
• Pale, ghostly skin
• Elongated canine teeth
• Hyper-dilated irises
• Enhanced sensory abilities
• Increased strength and speed
• Altered sleep patterns (nocturnal)
• Hand tremors due to altered circulation

Treatment

None currently known.

Prognosis

• High mortality rate during transformation, especially for very young and elderly victims
• Survivors experience significant physiological and behavioral changes
• Infected individuals (vampires) can potentially live for hundreds of years due to resistance to aging

Sequela

• Physiological dependence on human blood
• Altered brain structure and function
• Dramatic changes in sensory perception
• Inverted circulatory system
• Atrophied heart and digestive system
• Altered muscle composition
• Potential for obsessive behaviors
• Severe sensitivity to light
• Vulnerability to visual overstimulation by right angles

Hosts & Carriers

Primary hosts are human, but a mutated version may be found in canines (see Chupacabra)

Epidemiology

• Global presence, but exact prevalence unknown
• Cycles of surge and decline throughout history
• Spread limited by human immunity and vampire hibernation patterns

History

• Believed to have existed for millennia
• Possibly originated from insect parasites of vampire bats
• Presence in various cultures' folklore and mythology worldwide

Type

Viral

Origin

Natural

Rarity

Uncommon