Gigantovirus

The Gigantovirus is a viral Hazard, class 1b.

Location
The virus can only be passed by contact, so all infected must be contained with Hazard Zone One within a concrete-lined chamber.

No personnel are to enter. If this becomes necessary, they must wear level A HAZMAT gear and be screened after entry.

Attributes
Organisms infected by this virus grow abnormally large. Typically, they increase in mass and length by several orders of magnitude. Their systems change to account for this, with their respiratory and circulatory system becoming far more powerful and efficient, wings increasing many times in size and strength, muscle tissue hypertrophying.

The mass that allows this growth does not appear to have a real source, violating the laws of physics. It is unknown how the virus creates it.

However, they still need the same quantity of food per kilogram of mass and reproduction with other members of their species is now impossible.

Tested humans have shown a marked reduction in intelligence due to the greater spacing of neurons.

Cases
Reported cases.

Birds
It is believed that infected birds may have caused stories about rocs and thunderbirds. Robins, ducks, chickens, kiwis, and penguins have all been reported. A British merchant fleet ship log from the early 19th century mentions seeing "a Garefowl (great auk) of tremendous proportions," possible evidence of great auk infection.

Mammals
Many mammals have been infected. Cases include (but are not limited to):
 * Dogs
 * Cats
 * Rodents
 * Bears
 * Shrews
 * Bats
 * Primates (including humans)
 * Horses
 * Raccoons
 * Goat

Reptiles
A giant tuatara was terminated in New Zealand during the 18th century. Other reports include giant snakes and lizards.

Amphibians
As of yet, the only case of a gigantovirus-contaminated amphibian was an infected frog during the1980s. It evaded capture in Louisiana for two weeks before being terminated by Project Vigilance operatives.

Fish
River fish inevitably die soon after infection, as their homes are not large enough to hold them. However, fish in lakes and oceans can live for years. Recently, an infected shark was spotted off the coast of New Zealand. Some believe that infected eels inspired legends of sea serpents, though this cannot yet be confirmed.