Can an FTP Client Pull Viruses?

Hi all, just a general question on FTP, i used an Ipswitch WS_FTP Pro 2006, one morning when I came to check severs state as per usual routine, and i have noticed that my designated ftp server was filled with viruses, good job i use enterprise anti-virus. I was advised that if software is left open all the time then it will pull viruses from an infected remote system, into mine. i took no notice at the time, the aim was to clear the server and get it back up and running.
But now I kind of am wondering if it is a true statement?
So my question guys: can an FTP pull viruses? Would it not done so if it was closed?
Cheers