Which virus is known for damaging the immune system?

Which virus is known for damaging the immune system?

• A. Influenza virus
• B. HIV
• C. Hepatitis B virus
• D. Varicella-zoster virus

Answer: (B)

HIV is the virus known for damaging the immune system because it specifically targets CD4+ T cells, the immune system’s key coordinators. By reducing these cells, HIV gradually weakens the body's ability to fight infections and, if untreated, can progress to AIDS. Other viruses listed cause illnesses in other areas or are typically acute and don’t cause lasting immune suppression: influenza mainly affects the respiratory tract; hepatitis B targets liver cells; varicella-zoster causes chickenpox and can reactivate later as shingles, but doesn’t permanently impair overall immune function.

HIV is the virus known for damaging the immune system because it specifically targets CD4+ T cells, the immune system’s key coordinators. By reducing these cells, HIV gradually weakens the body's ability to fight infections and, if untreated, can progress to AIDS. Other viruses listed cause illnesses in other areas or are typically acute and don’t cause lasting immune suppression: influenza mainly affects the respiratory tract; hepatitis B targets liver cells; varicella-zoster causes chickenpox and can reactivate later as shingles, but doesn’t permanently impair overall immune function.