I know a decent amount of information on viruses based on what I have learned in previous years. Viruses can only survive and replicate within host cells. Viruses have genetic information, which they inject into the host cell. They basically take over the machinery of a cell and uses it to produce more of that virus. They are having a large impact on the world today, and I think that it is important to know about this information before it can really hurt us.
In this course, we will not have a lot of time to look into current events. However, if there is time, I would like to learn about specific viruses. Recently, an Ebola epidemic has broken out all over the world. It is a very concerning virus, as Ebola has no known treatment. US citizens have contracted the virus while overseas, making it a potential threat at home. Another virus that has hit is a respiratory virus that is affecting kids in about ten states. Called Enterovirus D68, scientists believe that it will be spread around the country, especially with schools starting up. I read the article Is an Unusual Virus Spreading in the Midwest?, and learned a lot of information involving certain types of viruses. Specifically, I learned that there are more than 100 viruses classified as Enteroviruses(Fleur, 2014). They spread by contact to others that have already contracted the virus. Children have a greater probability of contracting the virus due to a weaker immune system(Fleur, 2014). EV- D68 can cause extreme problems in the respiratory system, which is a concern to scientists(Fleur, 2014). What I think is interesting with this virus is that the symptoms are those of a common cold, making it hard to detect(Fleur, 2014). I hope to learn more about the specifics of these virus, and what scientists have to do to find a cure for these viruses.
Reference Citation:
Freur, N. (2014, September 11). Is an Unusual Virus Spreading in the Midwest? Retrieved September 14, 2014.Website: http://www.scientificamerican.com/article/is-an-unusual-virus-spreading-in-the-midwest/
