In virology

Virology is the study of viruses, which are tiny infectious agents that can only replicate inside the living cells of other organisms. Unlike bacteria, viruses are not considered living organisms because they lack cellular structures and metabolism. They can infect plants, animals, and humans, causing diseases ranging from the common cold to more severe illnesses like HIV/AIDS or COVID-19. Virologists research how viruses operate, how they spread, and how to prevent or treat virus-related diseases, contributing to public health efforts, vaccine development, and understanding of viral genetics and evolution.