VIRUS INFECTION Meaning and
Definition
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Virus infection refers to the invasion and replication of a virus within a host organism, resulting in an imbalance or disruption of normal cellular processes. It is a process in which a viral particle, also known as a virion, enters a host cell and takes control of its genetic machinery to reproduce and spread. This invasion can occur in various forms, such as through direct contact, inhalation, ingestion, or through vectors like mosquitoes or ticks.
During a virus infection, the virus particle attaches to specific receptor molecules on the surface of host cells. It then enters the cell, typically by fusing its viral envelope or capsid with the cell membrane or by being engulfed into a membrane-bound vesicle known as endocytosis. Once inside, the virus hijacks the host cell's machinery, utilizing its own viral genome to synthesize viral proteins and replicate its genetic material.
The consequences of virus infection can vary greatly depending on the type of virus and the host species involved. Some virus infections may cause mild symptoms like the common cold, while others can lead to severe diseases such as influenza, HIV/AIDS, or COVID-19. The spread of virus infection can occur locally within specific tissues or systemically throughout the entire body. Effective treatments for virus infections often involve antiviral medications that target the specific virus or vaccines that stimulate the immune system to recognize and eliminate the virus.
Common Misspellings for VIRUS INFECTION
- cirus infection
- birus infection
- girus infection
- firus infection
- vurus infection
- vjrus infection
- vkrus infection
- vorus infection
- v9rus infection
- v8rus infection
- vieus infection
- vidus infection
- vifus infection
- vitus infection
- vi5us infection
- vi4us infection
- virys infection
- virhs infection
- virjs infection
Etymology of VIRUS INFECTION
The etymology of the word "virus" can be traced back to the late 14th century, derived from the Latin word "virus", meaning "poison" or "slime". In ancient Latin, it referred to the venom of a snake or similar poisonous substances. Over time, the term evolved to encompass the concept of a pathogenic agent that causes infectious diseases.
The word "infection", on the other hand, originates from the Latin word "infectio", which means "defilement" or "contamination". It emerged in the 14th century, and it initially referred to a moral or spiritual corruption. The concept of disease transmission and biological contamination later became associated with the term.
When combined, the phrase "virus infection" refers to the process or state of being contaminated, affected, or invaded by a viral pathogen.
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