Kuru is an always infectious prion disease transmitted by eating the infected tissue of someone who has died from Kuru. It was only ever documented in areas in Papua New Guinea where cannibalism was a traditional mourning ritual.
Kuru and other prion diseases are classified differently then other microorganisms. This is done based on the phenotype of their lesions, and clinical symptoms; primarily what area of the brain is affected.
Kuru has three clinical stages based on patient mobility: Ambulant (can sit but not stand), Sedentary (can not move without help), and Terminal (comatose state). There are no treatments or cures for Kuru, but some supportive measures can be taken to ensure a Kuru victims comfort.
Kuru uses the host's nervous tissue to reproduce. It primarily affects the cerebellum, but can be seen through various areas of the brain and spinal cord.