Exploring the Unusual World of Viruses: From Ancient Secrets to Modern Mysteries
Viruses have been a constant source of conflict for humans since time immemorial. From computer viruses to those found in living organisms, these microscopic entities cause havoc across various aspects of life. In this article, we explore some fascinating facts about viruses that might surprise you.
Discoveries in the Past
In 2014, scientists discovered a 30,000-year-old giant virus named Pithovirus sibericum. Amazingly, the virus was still alive and killed amoebas upon hibernation.
In Space: The Reactivation of Viruses
NASA has found that crew members aboard space shuttles often notice the reactivation of dormant viruses, such as herpes. Scientists believe these viruses are triggered by stressors like cosmic radiation, altered sleeping cycles, and social separation.
Parasitic Viruses
Scientists at the Centre National de la Recherche discovered that a virus called mimivirus had another tinier virus named Sputnik, known as the first virus to parasite on another virus.
Beneficial Viral Associations
Some viruses in the human body, such as those targeting cancer cells, can be beneficial. Others help plants survive extreme heat conditions.
Aftermath of Ebola
Even after a male has been cured of the Ebola virus, it can continue to stay in his genitalia for up to two months. It is also possible that an affected male can pass the virus to a female through copulation.
Marine Life Regulation
Seawater contains many viruses necessary for regulating the growth of marine life. Over 200,000 virus species are estimated to be in each ocean.
Obesity-Causing Virus
Adipose tissue protein 33 (ADIPO33) is a virus that can cause human obesity. It has been found in 30% of plus-size individuals and can also lead to pneumonia, bronchitis, and the viral pink eye.
The Alleged Creation of a Virus Targeting Black People
Dr. Wouter Basson was accused of attempting to create a virus that would specifically affect black people while working at the South African Defense Force’s chemical and biological warfare division.
Avenues of Human Evolution
Scientists have discovered that at least 8% of human DNA consists of ancient viruses passed down from generation to generation, which have evolved to help the human race counter infections they may not know about.
An Unusual Virus Trait
Researchers have found that individuals exposed to the virus often revolve around ones frequently involved in sex work, although it remains unclear what causes this association.
Viruses: The Non-Living Organism Perspective
Unlike other living organisms, viruses do not absorb food or metabolize it. They only survive when they find a host or an environment with suitable conditions.
Chickenpox: A Herpes Virus in Disguise
Chickenpox, a common childhood illness, is actually a form of herpes scientifically known as Varicella-zoster. Like herpes, it can remain inactive in the body for years and remains contagious.
Religious Websites Carry More Viruses Than Porn Sites
Research by security firm Symantec found that religious websites carry more viruses than adult sites, which have typically been victims of malware attacks. This makes religious Website owners an easier target.
The Costly ILOVEYOU Virus
During the early 2000s, the ILOVEYOU virus caused a global internet blackout by affecting millions of computers worldwide, resulting in over $10 billion worth of damages.
