Viral diseases
Viral Diseases
Viral diseases (/ˈvaɪrəl dɪˈziːz/), also known as viral infections, are diseases caused by viruses. The term originates from the Latin virus meaning poison and the Greek disease meaning illness.
Overview
Viruses are small infectious agents that can only replicate inside the cells of another organism. Viral diseases can affect various organisms, including animals, plants, and bacteria. In humans, viral diseases can range from the common cold to more severe illnesses such as HIV/AIDS and Ebola virus disease.
Types of Viral Diseases
There are many types of viral diseases, including:
- Influenza - A highly contagious viral infection of the respiratory tract.
- Hepatitis - A viral disease that causes inflammation of the liver.
- HIV/AIDS - A viral disease that attacks the immune system.
- Ebola virus disease - A severe, often fatal illness in humans caused by the Ebola virus.
- Zika virus - A viral disease spread mainly by the bite of an infected Aedes species mosquito.
Prevention and Treatment
Prevention of viral diseases often involves vaccination, such as the Influenza vaccine or the Hepatitis B vaccine. Treatment can include antiviral medications, rest, and hydration. However, some viral diseases, such as HIV/AIDS, do not have a cure and treatment focuses on managing symptoms and slowing the progression of the disease.
See Also
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