According to Katherine Noyes of PC World, you can Fix a Windows Infection Using Linux. You can use the live CD (or USB flash drive) for any Linux distribution. As an example, Katherine presents a procedure that lets you scan for Windows viruses through an Ubunutu 10.10 live CD.
For example, if you have a Windows PC that a virus has converted to a boat anchor, you can shut down, reboot through the live CD without installing Linux, and then use the antivirus utility on the CD. After deleting or quarantining the virus, remove the CD and reboot through Windows. Hopefully, your Windows again runs normally. If so, thank the penguin.
This blog contains my technical documents that can help you practice thrifty computing through free, open-source software and inexpensive hardware. I always try to write brief descriptions, clear explanations, and simple, accurate procedures.