Virus mutation refers to the changes or alterations in the genetic material (RNA or DNA) of a virus that can occur over time. These mutations can happen due to various factors, including replication errors during viral reproduction, environmental pressures, or interactions with the host immune system. Mutations can lead to the emergence of new viral strains, which may exhibit different characteristics, such as altered infectivity, transmissibility, or virulence. While many mutations may have little to no impact on the virus’s behavior, some can significantly affect its ability to evade immune responses or respond to antiviral treatments, posing challenges for public health efforts and vaccine development. Understanding virus mutation is crucial in epidemiology and healthcare to monitor disease outbreaks and develop effective preventive measures.
Recent findings reveal that a hospitalized teenager in Vancouver has contracted an avian flu virus exhibiting significant genetic mutations, which may allow for increased transmissibility among humans. Experts are currently…