Viral diseases Flashcards – AQA GCSE Biology - Foundation (8461)

What type of pathogen causes measles?

A virus.

What two symptoms can measles cause?

Fever and a red skin rash.

How does measles spread between people?

By inhaling droplets released when an infected person coughs or sneezes.

How serious can measles be?

It can be serious and may be fatal if complications develop.

How are young children commonly protected against measles?

By vaccination.

How can HIV be transmitted?

Through sexual contact or the exchange of body fluids, including blood when people share needles.

What illness can HIV infection initially cause?

A flu-like illness.

How do antiretroviral drugs help prevent HIV from progressing to AIDS?

They control the virus, reducing its damage to immune cells.

What is the effect of severe immune damage in AIDS?

The body cannot deal effectively with other infections or cancers.