You get a number of "virus alerts" from various sources every week. Even though computer viruses are a valid concern and our intention is not to minimize the issue, the following information might set your mind at simplicity regarding computer viruses.
Your system cannot get infected with a computer virus by the simple action of reading your E-mail. Viruses are normally hidden in executable programs...in other words, programs that you RUN, which consist of macros in Microsoft® Office documents.

A good rule of thumb is NOT to open E-mail attachments that you have received from unwanted person. It would also be careful not to download and run programs from just ANY Internet site.

Determining if the Virus is Real or a Hoax...

For your peace of mind, and to put a stop to the overflow of unnecessary "virus alerts" running out of control all over the Internet community, it would be a good idea to check the validity of the virus before reacting and forwarding the "alert" on to everyone in your address book.

There are a number of helpful sites on the Internet that will help you to find out if the virus you are being warned about is real or if it is a hoax. You can refer the sites listed below, or look for other virus information sites using your preferred search engine.

symantec.com/avcenter/hoax.html
securityresponse.symantec.com/avcenter/vinfodb.html
www.networkassociates.com/us/security/home.asp
kumite.com/myths/
av.ibm.com/BreakingNews/VirusAlert/
stiller.com - Stiller Resources and Information.

Virus Detection and Removal Software...

There are numerous virus detection and removal software programs available. However, remember that your virus software is only as good as the most recent update to it and make sure that your virus software is regularly updated.