Fields Virology is the authoritative reference book for virology, providing definitive coverage of all aspects of virology, through coverage of virus biology as well as replication and medical aspects of specific virus families. With the regular outbreaks of influenza, noroviruses as well as emerging and re-emerging viruses it is essential to have the most up-to-date information available. With this Sixth Edition, all chapters have been completely updated, an important new emphasis has been placed on virus discovery and emerging viruses. Viruses associated with cancer, including the new human polyomaviruses, are highlighted in this Sixth Edition and new chapters have been added on circoviruses and mimiviruses. While the main focus of this edition continues to be on viruses, information on prions and the infectious spongiform encephalopathies are also included.