hello adamm-
here is link to google MS- put in your favorites- see:
http://www.google.com/microsoft.html
I checked a couple of the entries (mshta.exe and ntvdm.exe) they seem to be MS programs that have had some issues.
If the virus was not a boot sector virus -a format will get rid of all traces. You can use mbr switch in format to rewrite the boot sector.Are you using a compac? That is one brand I know of that uses a special mbr that can be downloaded at their web site.Many manufacturers of hard drives have downloadable tools for the drives they sell-check them out.
Are you using Outlook Express for your mail?It may be your biggest problem lol.(I use it too!)-see:
http://www.tomsterdam.com/insideoe/
lots of good info there
learn “safe hex” see: http://www.claymania.com/safe-hex.html
post back-max