The common cold, measles and mumps are viral diseases which means..?

Health · High School · Mon Jan 18 2021

Answered on

he common cold, measles, and mumps are viral diseases, which means they are caused by viruses. Viruses are microscopic infectious agents that can only replicate inside the cells of living organisms, such as humans, animals, plants, or bacteria. Unlike bacteria, viruses lack the cellular structure necessary for independent life. Instead, they rely on host cells to reproduce and carry out their life cycle.

In the case of viral diseases like the common cold, measles, and mumps:

  1. Common Cold: The common cold is often caused by rhinoviruses, but other viruses such as coronaviruses and adenoviruses can also be responsible. Symptoms include a runny or stuffy nose, sneezing, coughing, and a sore throat.
  2. Measles: Measles is caused by the measles virus. It is a highly contagious viral infection characterized by fever, cough, runny nose, red eyes, and a distinctive rash that usually starts on the face and spreads to the rest of the body.
  3. Mumps: Mumps is caused by the mumps virus. It typically results in swelling of the salivary glands, leading to a characteristic "chipmunk cheeks" appearance. Other symptoms may include fever, headache, muscle aches, and fatigue.

Viral diseases are often prevented through vaccination. Vaccines stimulate the immune system to recognize and combat specific viruses, providing immunity and preventing or reducing the severity of the disease.

Related Questions