14 DAY TRIAL // The Windows platform is a fertile ground for various viruses, and the last count of active threats is around 330, in October 2013.
It's difficult to find an exact number for Windows malware. Symantec, for example, lists a few million pieces, but there are only a few hundred active at once, at any given time. The last count, in October 2013 (WildList) shows that there are 330 potential threats to Windows' safety.
On the other hand, Linux only had to deal with less than 50 malware programs in total in the last few years, and most of them have been rendered obsolete with simple patches.
This would explain the flurry of antivirus programs on the Windows platform and why Linux antivirus software is usually trained in finding Windows viruses.
In April 2014, Microsoft will stop the support for Windows XP. This means that you can now choose to be safe. Choose Linux.
Check out Episode 1: Hey Microsoft, Can Your “New” Windows 8.1 Do This?