Influenza viruses undergo antigenic drift via small
mutations in antibody‑binding regions of haemagglutinin. These changes reduce
neutralisation by vaccine‑induced antibodies while leaving
receptor binding intact.

If vaccination coverage remains high over many seasons, what
evolutionary outcome is most likely?

Question

Influenza viruses undergo antigenic drift via small
mutations in antibody‑binding regions of haemagglutinin. These changes reduce
neutralisation by vaccine‑induced antibodies while leaving
receptor binding intact.

If vaccination coverage remains high over many seasons, what
evolutionary outcome is most likely?

Accepted Answer

Progressive
replacement of circulating strains by antibody‑escape variants

Answer

Elimination
of influenza through herd immunity

Answer

Equal
persistence of old and new antigenic strains

Answer

Loss
of HA variability due to immune stabilisation

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Influenza viruses undergo antigenic drift via small mutations in antibody‑bindi...

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