The antiviral response is the immune response mounted by the body to combat viral infections. This response involves a complex interplay of various immune cells, cytokines, and signaling pathways to detect, target, and eliminate viruses from the body. Key components of the antiviral response include the production of interferons, which help to inhibit viral replication, as well as the activation of immune cells such as T cells and natural killer cells to directly target and kill virus-infected cells. Understanding and manipulating the antiviral response is essential for the development of effective antiviral therapies and vaccines.