3 ms·
Ebola evolves. Each outbreak carries a number of distinct genetic changes [1] and there is a risk of a mutation (or a chain of mutations) that would accelerate
by bra-ket 12y ago
Ebola evolves. Each outbreak carries a number of distinct genetic changes [1] and there is a risk of a mutation (or a chain of mutations) that would accelerate transmission in unpredictable ways by interacting with new hosts.
This happened in the past with Yersinia Pestis that wiped out half of the world population through fleas.
I'm not sure sure why there is no centralized effort to accelerate research but rather top virologists focus on logistics of moving dead bodies.
[1] http://www.sciencemag.org/content/345/6202/1369.full http://www.sciencemag.org/content/345/6202/1369.full
- danieltillett 12y ago>I'm not sure sure why there is no centralized effort to accelerate research Your answer is right at the bottom of the science article. "In memoriam: Tragically, five co-authors, who contributed greatly to public health and research efforts in Sierra Leone, contracted EVD and lost their battle with the disease before this manuscript could be published: Mohamed Fullah, Mbalu Fonnie, Alex Moigboi, Alice Kovoma, and S. Humarr Khan. We wish to honor their memory."