Science · Topic 55 of 64
Viruses
⭐ MasteredA virus is a tiny particle that needs a living cell to make copies of itself. Viruses cause illnesses such as colds and flu.
💡 Fun fact
Viruses are much smaller than bacteria and cannot grow or reproduce without a host.
All about Viruses
A virus is a tiny particle made of genetic material inside a protein shell. Viruses cannot grow or reproduce on their own, so they must infect a living cell to make copies of themselves.
Common viruses cause colds, flu and chickenpox. Vaccines help the body prepare to fight specific viruses.
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Real-life uses of Viruses
- Developing vaccines for diseases
- Understanding how illnesses spread
- Learning why hand washing and covering coughs help
Frequently asked questions about Viruses
Are viruses alive?
Scientists debate this, but viruses cannot reproduce without a host cell.
Do antibiotics work on viruses?
No. Antibiotics only work against bacteria.