LogFAQs > #937358892

Tyranthraxus posted...

Viruses don't replicate the way cells replicate either sexually or asexually. They replicate more like facehuggers from aliens.

Specifically, they inject their RNA into cells, reconfiguring the cell to produce copies of the virus until it is so full of viruses it explodes. Thus the primary immune response is the destruction of infected cells, as it's difficult to catch them out in the "open".
HIV is so terrifying because it infects the T-cells that direct the immune response. Without T-cells, the immune system is basically inert.