Science Alert: The coronavirus isn't mutating quickly, which suggests a vaccine could provide long-term protection

The genetic code of the new coronavirus SARS-CoV-2 hasn't changed much as it has circulated around the world, according to scientists who are closely studying the pathogen. That relative stability suggests the virus is less likely to become more or less dangerous as it spreads. And it suggests a vaccine could confer long-lasting protection, more like a measles or chicken pox vaccine than a flu vaccine, which has to be changed every year as flu viruses mutate.

Democracy Dies in Darkness     Science Alert Mar 24, 4:31 PM     The coronavirus isn't mutating quickly, which suggests a vaccine could provide long-term protection The genetic code of the new coronavirus SARS-CoV-2 hasn't changed much as it has circulated around the world, according to scientists who are closely studying the pathogen. That relative stability suggests the virus is less likely to become more or less dangerous as it spreads. And it suggests a vaccine could confer long-lasting protection, more like a measles or chicken pox vaccine than a flu vaccine, which has to be changed every year as flu viruses mutate. Read more » Advertisement You received this email because you signed up for news alerts from The Washington Post. Manage my newsletters and alerts | Unsubscribe Privacy Policy | Help ©2020 The Washington Post, 1301 K St NW, Washington DC 20071