Viruses are alive?

[SUBMAN1]

I took Biology in college and this idea that viruses being alive was considered a big no no (that is if you wanted to pass any exam!)! This is because it is not supposed to have DNA, but instead uses its RNA to reprogram a host cells DNA to replicate itself. Interesting.

-S

PS. I should point out - the evidence of illness as said below is one virus infecting another virus. Try and put that one together! How is this possible too when you are only working with RNA?

http://www.nature.com/news/2008/0808...l/454677a.html

'Virophage' suggests viruses are alive

Evidence of illness enhances case for life.