When small mutations gradually change the surface antigens of a virus so that antibodies to the original virus become less effective, this is known as
A) an arms race.
B) antigenic escape.
C) antibody migration.
D) antigenic drift.
E) spike reassortment.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

This process is known as antigenic drift, as the surface antigens of the virus gradually drift or change over time, leading to decreased effectiveness of previously produced antibodies.

When Small Mutations Gradually Change the Surface Antigens of a Virus