The Host

Origin 

The Host is mysterious and ambiguous in nature, a mutant and self appointed and proclaimed freedom fighter, on behalf of viruses, she tries to liberate a strain of genetically engineered small pox to release into the world because it has as much right to spread, live and propagate as humans, whom she labels as oppressors. This brings her directly to blows with the mutant Mystique whose goal is to safeguard the virus and prevent from going widespread, creating a rivalry between the two dangerous femme fatales.  
 
She has no qualms about killing humans and does so casually - her aims and goals center around the liberation and safeguarding of viruses. She claims to give a voice to the voiceless. After her run in with Mystique, The Host manages to capture Shortpack, Mystiques field handler, however she is soon after defeated. 
 

Creation

Created by writer Brian K Vaughn and artist Michael Ryan, Host first appeared in Mystique #7
 

Major Story Arcs 

Tinker, Tailor, Mutant, Spy  
In South Africa, a deadly mutant strain of smallpox, is being engineered by a South African scientist, and The Host sets out to liberate the virus, and in the process earns the attention of Mystique who is trying to prevent the viruses release as it would kill scores of humans. 

Powers and Abilities 

The Host is a mutant with the power to spread, infect, inflict disease though control, manipulation and communication with viruses. She is also immune to those diseases and viruses as well. Using the pathogens within herself, she has a degree of durability and strength that allows her to have augmented strength and durability. She has been demonstrated the ability to inflict Murray Valley Encephalitis onto her victims. Merely one virus at her disposal.