Coronaviruses possess the longest genomes of all known RNA viruses. This makes them more vulnerable to errors during RNA transcription. Moreover, coronaviruses are also known for their ability to recombine using both homologous and non-homologous recombination. As a result multiple strains or mutants can emerge relatively quickly. During a pandemic when hundreds of thousands of people are getting infected, it is quite possible that as virus mutates, it can either become more deadly or lose its replicative fitness due to accumulating mutations and fade away, like what happened to SARS and MERS CoV. Which direction it will take is yet unknown but may have a major impact on course of human history. #COVID-19, #coronavirusoutbreak
Does this also mean that as countries close their borders, the virus’ lethality may start to show regional variation? And how do we account these mutations while developing a vaccine?
Very interesting.
Rizwan, Thanks for sharing this valuable information. I have few questions: Do you think that the strain may different in Europe (increased case fatality rate)? What do you think about development of immunity against this virus, is reinfection a possibility? I am also concerned about possible co-infection with other microorganisms? Please share your thoughts. Thank you
Excellent information
Thank you for all the info you provide, I am immune suppressed and have been in my house for a week. Don't know what I am going to do, have to get some food , so have to go to the store. I hope everything goes well, I do have a mask and gloves. Wish I had goggles. I live near Sacramento, calif. sandy Hodge
Interesting!
Very interesting
Doctor of Medicine (MD) at NYU
4 年We need to be prepared