The Hot Zone

222. Describe the conditions inside the cave. Why is this an unusual climate for a cave? Why is it described as a good place for a virus to be preserved? Why would sunlight kill viruses?

chapter 29

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As they approach the cave, the author realizes that everything he sees is a potential transmitter for the Marburg virus: every moth, every insect, even the stinging nettles. The trail leading to the cave is also covered with animal dung, another possible host for the virus, and the author becomes increasingly nervous about his mission. Ebola virus is easily killed by soap, bleach, sunlight, and high temperatures or drying.