Sending PDF files in email used to be a safer way to transmit documents a couple of years ago. Not anymore. We are seeing more and more PDF files containing virus that manage to slip through the antivirus scanning and damage users computer. In fact, PDF files and QuickTime movies are getting exploited a lot these days for spreading viruses around.
My solution to virus and malware fighting:
Use a dedicated computer for email communication and browsing unknown websites. Then use another computer(s) for your daily regular work.