Forensic virology is the application of virology to the field of forensic science. It is the study of viruses in a criminal justice setting. Forensic virologists use a variety of techniques to identify and characterize viruses that may be present at crime scenes, and to link suspects to crimes. **Types of Viruses Found at Crime Scenes** A wide variety of viruses can be found at crime scenes. These **Human viruses**, such as the viruses that cause the common cold, influenza, and HIV. **Animal viruses**, such as the viruses that cause rabies, foot-and-mouth disease, and avian influenza. **Plant viruses**, such as the viruses that cause tobacco mosaic disease and cucumber mosaic disease.