Antiviral research is a field of study that focuses on the development of medications, vaccines, and other treatments to prevent or treat viral infections. This research area aims to identify and understand the mechanisms of action of viruses, as well as to develop strategies to target and deactivate them. Antiviral drugs work by either blocking the virus from entering or replicating within host cells, or by stimulating the immune system to better fight off the infection. Antiviral research is crucial in the ongoing battle against emerging and re-emerging viral diseases, such as influenza, HIV, hepatitis, and COVID-19.