Abstract

Viral pathogenesis is the study of how viruses cause disease in their hosts, encompassing the mechanisms of viral entry, replication, and interaction with the immune system. This commentary highlights the intricate processes involved in viral infections, including the ways viruses exploit host cell machinery to replicate and evade immune responses. The immune system's role in combating viral infections is critical, as it activates both innate and adaptive defenses to eliminate viruses. However, many viruses have evolved sophisticated strategies to evade these defenses, leading to chronic infections and disease complications. Understanding viral pathogenesis is essential for developing effective vaccines and antiviral therapies, as evidenced by recent advancements such as mRNA vaccines for COVID-19. As new viral threats continue to emerge, ongoing research in this field is vital for informing public health strategies and ensuring global readiness to combat future viral outbreaks.