1. What does the word virus mean? Explain the controversy whether it is alive or not.
2. Name the distinctive characteristics of viruses and why they're not included in any kingdom.
3. Name some morphological shapes of viruses and give an example of each.
4. Explain the importance of vaccines to combat viruses. How do they work?
5. Describe how viruses reproduce and how the genetic modifications called mutations occur and viral resistance.
6. Have viral diseases ever been eradicated? Why is it difficult to treat patients with viral diseases?
7. Explain the difference in the following exanthematous or rash diseases:
a. Rubella
b. Measles
c. Chickenpox
8. Choose three of the following viral diseases and describe their form of infection, symptoms and prevention:
a. Cholera
b. Herpes
c. AIDS
d. Mumps
e. Poliomyelitis
f. Meningitis
g. Hepatitis
h. Dengue
9. Explain the difference between a cold and the flu. Why does the influenza virus cause periodic epidemics (like the Spanish flu, avian flu, H1N1, etc.)?
10. What is the difference between a virus and a prion?
11. Give a brief report about a viral pandemic and the impact it had on the world.
