International Committee on Taxonomy of Viruses
The International Committee on Taxonomy of Viruses (ICTV) is an organization responsible for the classification and naming of viruses. Established in 1966, it aims to provide a universal system for virus taxonomy, ensuring consistency and clarity in the scientific community. The ICTV categorizes viruses based on their genetic, structural, and biological characteristics.
The committee regularly updates its classifications and publishes the ICTV Virus Taxonomy database, which serves as a reference for researchers worldwide. By standardizing virus names and classifications, the ICTV facilitates communication and collaboration among scientists studying viruses, including those related to diseases like COVID-19 and HIV.