Question

Why do RNA viruses like Influenza require new vaccines every year?

Options

• DNA viruses are more stable and do not require new vaccines

• RNA viruses lose their genetic material over time

• RNA viruses evolve rapidly due to their high mutation rate

• RNA viruses are protected by histone proteins

Answer 1

RNA viruses such as Influenza and HIV evolve rapidly due to their high mutation rate caused by the 2′-OH group making error correction less efficient and the lack of proofreading mechanisms in RNA viruses. This rapid evolution necessitates new vaccines every year.