
Virus - Wikipedia
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.
Viruses: Definition, Types, Characteristics & Facts
Mar 29, 2023 · 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 …
Virus | Definition, Structure, & Facts | Britannica
Dec 3, 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 thus …
Intro to viruses (article) | Viruses | Khan Academy
A virus is a tiny, infectious particle that can reproduce only by infecting a host cell. Viruses "commandeer" the host cell and use its resources to make more viruses, basically …
Virus - National Human Genome Research Institute
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 …
What Is a Virus? Definition, Structure, and How Viruses Work
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.
Viruses - National Geographic Society
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 …
Overview of Viruses - Infectious Diseases - MSD Manual Professional Edition
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.
What Is a Virus and How Does It Work? - Biology Insights
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 …
What is a Virus? - News-Medical.net
Jun 26, 2024 · A virus is a small infectious agent that can only replicate inside the cells of another organism.