An intelligent, genetically engineered virus designed as a rival to the nicotine patch, the Epideme virus was intended to block neural signals related to nicotine cravings, but in practice, it also blocked vital signals such as telling the body to breathe and pump blood. Epideme began killing its users, absorbing their knowledge and hijacking their corpses in search of new victims. Epideme is self-assured, charismatic, sadistic, and enjoys the sound of its voice. It talks like a game show host.