Question

Is the following statement true? “Antigenic drift and other mutations to the DNA of viruses are always beneficial for the virus.”(1 point)

No, because mutated viruses may be less likely to replicate.

Yes, because mutated viruses have less mRNA so they can copy and replicate faster.

No, because different mutations cause a variety of immune responses.

Yes, because mutated viruses are able to infect more hosts.

Answer 1

No — "No, because mutated viruses may be less likely to replicate."

Mutations can be beneficial, neutral, or harmful; many mutations reduce viral fitness (e.g., disrupt essential proteins) and make the virus less able to replicate.