Virus parallels between humans and computers

Computer viruses mirror their human equivalents in the way they behave and are structured and even in the threat they pose, says research published yesterday.

After a year-long investigation, medical and technology experts believe they have discovered parallels between the two types of viruses which could help in the fight against them.

McAfee AntiVirus technology consultant Jack Clark and Dr Rod Daniels of the National Institute of Medical Research found similarities.

Both types of virus follow similar patterns of infection. Anti-virus software and human immune systems learn from exposure to viruses to fight off new types.