What is a Virus?

Viruses are microscopic, non-living infectious agents consisting of genetic material (DNA or RNA) enclosed in protein, requiring a living host cell to replicate. They cause communicable diseases—ranging from the common cold and influenza to COVID-19 and hepatitis—by invading cells, spreading through droplets, fluids, or contact. Prevention relies on vaccines and hygiene, while treatment focuses on symptom management rather than direct cures.

What is a Virus?

Viruses are not technically classified as living organisms because they cannot reproduce on their own; they need a host cell—human, animal, or plant—to hijack cellular machinery and create copies of themselves. They are among the smallest infectious agents known.

Types of Viral Infections

Viruses are responsible for a vast array of illnesses, generally categorized by the system they affect:

• Respiratory Viruses: Influenza, COVID-19, Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV), and the common cold.

• Digestive System Viruses: Gastroenteritis (stomach flu), Rotavirus.

• Liver Viruses: Hepatitis A, B, C, D, and E.

• Skin/Surface Viruses: Herpes simplex (cold sores), warts, chickenpox.

Communicable or Non-Communicable?

Viral infections are almost entirely communicable diseases, meaning they spread from person to person.

• Transmission Methods: They spread through respiratory droplets (coughing/sneezing), contaminated food/water (faecal-oral route), direct contact with bodily fluids, or through vectors like mosquitoes.

• Latent Viruses: Some viruses (like herpes) can become "dormant" or inactive in the body, only to reactivate later, causing recurring, yet communicable, outbreaks.

Symptoms of Viral Infections

Symptoms are often a result of the immune system fighting the infection and vary based on the type of virus. Common indicators include:

• Fever and chills.

• Cough, sore throat, and runny nose.

• Fatigue and body aches.

• Diarrhoea, nausea, or vomiting.

• Skin rashes or sores.

Cure and Management

Unlike bacterial infections, antibiotics cannot treat viral infections.

• Supportive Care: The primary approach is managing symptoms through hydration, rest, and over-the-counter medication (fever reducers, cough suppressants).

• Antivirals: Specific antiviral medications exist for certain viruses (e.g., flu, HIV, Hepatitis) to help reduce severity and duration, but they do not always "cure" the infection.

• Immune System: In most cases, the body's immune system clears the virus over time.

Prevention Strategies

Preventing the spread of viruses is crucial, especially during seasonal changes:

• Vaccinations: Vaccines are the most effective defence against many viruses, including Influenza and COVID-19.

• Hand Hygiene: Regular, thorough hand washing with soap and water is crucial.

• Respiratory Etiquette: Covering coughs and sneezes and wearing masks in crowded areas.

• Sanitation: Cleaning frequently touched surfaces and practicing safe food/water consumption.

• Social Distancing: Avoiding close contact with infected individuals.