Episode 1306 • • 2:55 - 9:57
1306: Antigenic Drift
COVID-19 Variant Mutations, Vaccine Efficacy, Antigenic Drift
Health experts and media outlets report on a new COVID-19 variant in the UK and South Africa featuring 17 mutations, specifically in the spike protein. Dr. Michael Osterholm and other scientists express concern over increased transmissibility, while Dr. John Brownstein explains that "antigenic drift" may eventually require annual vaccine updates similar to the flu. Current data suggests existing vaccines remain effective against severe disease despite these mutations.