This introductory textbook was first published in 1978. It was
originally intended primarily for students who wanted to obtain a
simplified picture of what viruses are like and how they can multiply
and cause disease. Today, it still provides a general overall picture of
virology, emphasising the underlying fundamental biochemical principles
rather than detailing the complexities of different viruses or clinical
problems. The mechanisms of replication and the variety of structures
found in viruses are dealt with from a comparative standpoint. A working
knowledge of proteins, nucleic acids and lipids is assumed.