During the 1918 influenza pandemic, viral variants emerged
with altered sialic acid receptor preference, reflecting adaptation to human
hosts. Changes in receptor binding can influence where in the respiratory tract
the virus replicates and how efficiently it spreads between individuals.

Which change would most plausibly explain how this host
adaptation increased both transmission and pathogenic impact at the population
level?

Question

During the 1918 influenza pandemic, viral variants emerged
with altered sialic acid receptor preference, reflecting adaptation to human
hosts. Changes in receptor binding can influence where in the respiratory tract
the virus replicates and how efficiently it spreads between individuals.

Which change would most plausibly explain how this host
adaptation increased both transmission and pathogenic impact at the population
level?

Accepted Answer

Increased
binding to receptors predominantly found in the upper respiratory tract,
facilitating efficient person-to-person spread

Answer

Reduced
binding to receptors in the lower respiratory tract, limiting severe disease

Answer

Increased
binding to receptors predominantly found in the lower respiratory tract,
enhancing tissue invasion

Answer

Acquisition
of multiple basic amino acids in the haemagglutinin cleavage site, increasing
intracellular activation

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During the 1918 influenza pandemic, viral variants emerged with altered sialic ...

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