NCLEX-PN

Viruses exhibit diverse shapes, such as icosahedral and helical, and are categorized based on the host cells they target (e.g., plant, fungal, or animal viruses). They can also be classified by their method of replication and nucleic acid composition (RNA or DNA). The six stages of virus growth are as follows: ●​ Attachment : The virus binds to a receptor on host cells, with different viruses having varying binding abilities. ●​ Penetration : The virus enters the host cell. ●​ Uncoating : The virus sheds its coating, allowing its nucleic material to enter the host cell. ●​ Replication : The virus replicates and multiplies.

●​ Self-Assembly : Viruses mature through self-assembly. ●​ Release : The virus exits host cells and dies due to lysis.

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