An example of a pathogen that undergoes rapid changes resulting in antigenic variation is
A) the influenza virus, which expresses alternative envelope proteins.
B) the strep bacteria, which can be communicated from patient to patient with high efficiency.
C) human papilloma virus, which can remain latent for several years.
D) the causative agent of the autoimmune disease known as rheumatoid arthritis.
E) multiple sclerosis, which attacks the myelinated cells of the nervous system.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The influenza virus is known for antigenic variation through the genetic reassortment of its RNA genome, resulting in the expression of alternative envelope proteins that the immune system may not recognize. This is why flu vaccines must be reformulated each year to target the predominant strains.

An Example of a Pathogen That Undergoes Rapid Changes Resulting