10 virus facts
Here are 10 key facts about viruses:
-
Definition: Viruses are tiny, infectious organisms that replicate inside the cells of living organisms, causing a range of diseases
-
Structure: Viruses consist of a protein coat (capsid) surrounding a core of genetic material, either DNA or RNA
-
Types: There are several types of viruses, including:
-
DNA viruses (e.g. herpes simplex, varicella-zoster)
-
RNA viruses (e.g. influenza, HIV)
-
Retroviruses (e.g. HIV, which converts RNA into DNA).
-
-
Transmission: Viruses can be transmitted through various routes, including:
-
Respiratory droplets (e.g. influenza, COVID-19)
-
Contact with infected bodily fluids (e.g. HIV, hepatitis B)
-
Vector-borne transmission (e.g. mosquito-borne viruses like Zika).
-
-
Incubation Period: The time between exposure to a virus and the onset of symptoms is known as the incubation period, which varies depending on the virus.
-
Common Viral Infections: Common viral infections in the UK include:
-
Upper respiratory tract infections (URTIs)
-
Gastroenteritis (e.g., norovirus, rotavirus)
-
Herpes simplex virus (HSV) infections.
-
-
Diagnosis:
- Often the diagnosis is clinical (i.e. not based on tests) – e.g. shingles (varicella-zoster)
-
Some viral infections can be diagnosed using various methods, including:
-
Molecular tests (e.g. PCR, antigen detection)
-
Serology (e.g. antibody testing)
-
Viral culture.
-
-
Treatment: Treatment of viral infections often focuses on managing symptoms and supporting the body’s immune response, as antiviral medications are not always effective (or needed).
-
Vaccination: Vaccination is a crucial aspect of viral disease prevention, with many vaccines available to protect against serious viral infections, such as:
-
Influenza
- COVID-19
-
Human papillomavirus (HPV)
-
Measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR).
-
-
Emerging Viral Threats: The UK is at risk from emerging viral threats, such as:
-
Pandemic influenza
-
COVID-19, and other corornaviruses
-
Other zoonotic viruses (e.g., SARS, MERS).
-
