Which mechanism allows certain viral pathogens to evade the vertebrate immune system?
A)becoming a symbiont
B)becoming nonvirulent
C)frequent changing of surface antigens
D)becoming metabolically inactive
E)becoming a spore

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Frequent changing of surface antigens allows certain viral pathogens to evade the vertebrate immune system. This mechanism is known as antigenic variation and is commonly used by viruses such as influenza, HIV, and the hepatitis C virus. By frequently changing their surface antigens, these viruses can avoid recognition and destruction by the immune system.

Which Mechanism Allows Certain Viral Pathogens to Evade the Vertebrate