Many posters on the Linux Mint Forum, who have used Linux for many years in various the distros (kinds) available, for a good number of years, will say that they never install anti virus programmes. As there is no registry, such as Windows possesses, it is stated that there is less need and it is frequently said that installation of such programmes can cause issues.
Whether they are correct or not I can not say but having used Linux for a while now, without anti virus installed and not encountered problems, I am prepared to accept their more experienced views.
Linux gives frequent programme updates which take very little time to download and install, compared to Windows. I have dual boot available - Linux or Windows. Once a week I boot up Windows 10, just to keep it updated. It certainly does update, usually taking at least ten minutes, often more. I do use Windows Defender for the Windows system which seems far more adequate than it once was.
I recently received an e-mail from a known friend which contained something to do with Google. My ISP (TalkTalk) warned me that there was a possibility it contained a virus needless to say I did not open or read the content. So there are ways, without expensive paid for programmes, for protecting your self.