Segmented RNA viruses

Segmented RNA viruses are viruses that contain their genetic information in multiple pieces of RNA, rather than a single strand. This segmentation allows the virus to exchange segments with other viruses, creating new combinations, which can enhance diversity and adaptability. Examples include influenza viruses. When a cell is infected, these segments are replicated and packaged into new virus particles, each carrying a complete set of segments needed to infect other cells. The segmented structure plays a key role in the virus's evolution, including the potential for more rapid genetic change and emergence of new strains.