Viral Infections Quiz

What do viruses use to replicate themselves?

• Their own cells

• Host cells

• Bacterial cells

• Fungal cells

Answer explanation

Viruses cannot replicate on their own; they require host cells to reproduce. They hijack the cellular machinery of host cells to make copies of themselves, which is why 'host cells' is the correct answer.

What is the protective coating of a virus called?

• Cell wall

• Membrane

• Capsid

• Envelope

Answer explanation

The protective coating of a virus is called a capsid. It is a protein shell that encases the viral genetic material, providing protection and aiding in the delivery of the virus into host cells.

Which of the following is a common viral illness?

• Tuberculosis

• Influenza

• Ringworm

• Malaria

Answer explanation

Influenza is a common viral illness that causes respiratory symptoms. In contrast, tuberculosis is bacterial, ringworm is a fungal infection, and malaria is caused by a parasite.

What is a common effect of viral hemorrhagic fevers?

• Causes stomach flu

• Weakens blood vessels

• Affects the liver

• Causes ear infections

Answer explanation

Viral hemorrhagic fevers often lead to the weakening of blood vessels, which can result in severe bleeding and other complications. This is a key characteristic of these diseases, distinguishing them from other infections.

Which virus is known to cause gastroenteritis?

• Rhinovirus

• Norovirus

• RSV

• Parainfluenza

Answer explanation

Norovirus is the primary virus responsible for gastroenteritis, causing inflammation of the stomach and intestines. Other viruses listed, like rhinovirus and RSV, primarily affect the respiratory system.

Which of the following is an example of a viral hemorrhagic fever?

• Influenza

• COVID-19

• Ebola

• RSV

Answer explanation

Ebola is a well-known viral hemorrhagic fever caused by the Ebola virus, characterized by severe bleeding and high mortality rates. In contrast, Influenza, COVID-19, and RSV are respiratory illnesses, not hemorrhagic fevers.

Which of the following is a sexually transmitted virus?

• Hantavirus

• Measles

• Human papilloma virus (HPV)

• West Nile virus

Answer explanation

The Human papilloma virus (HPV) is a sexually transmitted virus that can lead to various health issues, including genital warts and certain cancers. The other options are not transmitted through sexual contact.

Which virus is known to attack the nervous system and can cause paralysis?

• Yellow fever

• Rabies

• Chickenpox

• Genital herpes

Answer explanation

Rabies is a virus that specifically attacks the nervous system, leading to severe neurological symptoms and can result in paralysis. Other options like yellow fever, chickenpox, and genital herpes do not primarily affect the nervous system.

Which of the following viruses is known to cause congenital infections?

• Influenza

• Cytomegalovirus (CMV)

• Rhinovirus

• Norovirus

Answer explanation

Cytomegalovirus (CMV) is known to cause congenital infections, leading to serious health issues in newborns. In contrast, influenza, rhinovirus, and norovirus do not typically result in congenital infections.

What is a key risk factor for increased severity of viral infections?

• Being under 5 or over 65 years old

• Having a balanced diet

• Regular exercise

• High vitamin intake

Answer explanation

Individuals under 5 or over 65 years old are at higher risk for severe viral infections due to their developing or weakened immune systems, making them more vulnerable to complications.