It can be a virus that is isolated from its natural reservoir or isolated as the result of spread to an animal or human host where the virus had not been identified before.

Dec 17, 2025 · Virus, infectious agent of small size and simple composition that can multiply only in living cells of animals, plants, or bacteria. Viruses possess unique infective properties and …

A virus is a small piece of genetic information in a “carrying case” — a protective coating called a capsid. Viruses aren’t made up of cells, so they don’t have all the equipment that cells do to …

Dec 18, 2025 · This page details respiratory illnesses from bacteria and viruses other than COVID-19, flu, and RSV. It also shows the latest emergency department trends for conditions …

Apr 12, 2025 · When a virus enters the body, the innate immune system reacts first. This non-specific defense includes barriers like skin, as well as cells that engulf and destroy invaders.

Oct 19, 2023 · In humans, viruses can cause many diseases. For example, the flu is caused by the influenza virus. Typically, viruses cause an immune response in the host, and this kills the …

3 days ago · A virus is an infectious microbe consisting of a segment of nucleic acid (either DNA or RNA) surrounded by a protein coat. A virus cannot replicate alone; instead, it must infect …

A virus is a non-cellular infectious agent, significantly smaller than typical cells, ranging from about 20 to 250 nanometers in size. Its fundamental structure consists of genetic material, which can …

Mode of transmission varies by virus, and some viruses can be spread by more than one mode of transmission. Viruses that infect primarily humans often spread via the respiratory tract.

Key points: A virus is an infectious particle that reproduces by "commandeering" a host cell and using its machinery to make more viruses. A virus is made up of a DNA or RNA genome inside …