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The RNA viruses that cause disease in humans are a remarkably
diverse group of microbes with a variety of morphological
and genetic adaptations and extreme and novel biological
characteristics. Viruses are assigned to one of 12 families on the basis
of their envelope, capsid, and the nature of their RNA genome.
RNA viruses are etiologic agents in a number of serious and
prevalent human diseases, including influenza, AIDS, hepatitis, and viral
encephalitis. Many experts believe that these viruses and dozens of
others have the potential of becoming the most important disease
threats of the future.
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