Viruses

Question 1

What are they

Answer 1

Viruses are very small (ultramicroscopic) and are only visible under an electron microscope. They must live within a host cell and exist as a protein capsule containing necessary chemicals to reproduce.

Question 2

diseases

Answer 2

It is this protein capsule that causes our body to react against them and is unique to each virus. Examples include Hepatitis, Measles and Mumps however, vaccinations have been developed of immunity against these. Furthermore, they are unaffected by antibiotics, but some can be treated using antiviral drugs.

Question 3

Aciclovir drug

Answer 3

an antiviral age used in topical cream to treat ‘cold sore’ lesions of the lips

Question 4

Vaccinations

Answer 4

a harmless dose of the dead virus or its protein capsule which is injected or given orally. The presence of the dead virus causes the body’s immune system to fight against them by making antibodies. If the individual is then exposed to the same virus in the future, these antibodies will fight off the viral attack and prevent the person from becoming ill (acquired immunity)