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LicenseModel of adenovirus, made by Mrs. C.V. Waugh, 1974-1976
Science Museum Group Collection
© The Board of Trustees of the Science Museum
Model of adenovirus, made by Mrs. C.V. Waugh, 1974-1976
The adenovirus was discovered in 1953. Since then a hundred types have been found, 47 of which affect humans. Adenoviruses are a type of virus that contains DNA and cause conjunctivitis, gastroenteritis and infections in the respiratory tract. This cardboard and plastic model shows type 5, which causes respiratory infections.
A body must fight off an adenovirus itself as antibiotics are ineffective. All adenoviruses are this shape, which is icosahedral or twenty sided. Adenoviruses are only visible using an electron microscope.
