VIRUSES

VIRUSES

Viruses are the smallest of all the microbes. They are also very different to the bacteria

and fungi that we have already seen. In fact it is disputed whether viruses are

living things at all!!!

Protein coatEncloses the virus genetic material and protects it from damage.

Viral envelopeMade from fatty molecules taken from cells in the host and help the virus enter host cells

Surface proteinsHelp the virus recognise and bind to cells in the host organism

Genetic material(DNA or RNA) Contains the instructions for making new copies of the virus

GENERAL STRUCTURE OF VIRUSES

VIRUS LIFESTYLE

Viruses are all pathogenic (cause disease) and are parasitic (harm their host cells).

There are no beneficial viruses. There are many diseases in humans caused

by viruses

VIRAL DISEASES There are many diseases in humans caused

by viruses