arrow
arrow
arrow
​The population that is at highest risk against influenza infection should be immunized annually. Which one of the following is the most important rea
Question

The population that is at highest risk against influenza infection should be immunized annually. Which one of the following is the most important reason for this?

A.

Influenza virus can change its surface antigen very frequently.

B.

Influenza virus has a very short incubation period.

C.

Influenza virus has a reasonably longer incubation period giving memory B cells time to respond by producing high levels of serum antibody.

D.

Repeated immunization interferes with the differentiation of plasma cells from memory cells thereby decreasing levels of neutralizing antibody.

Correct option is B

Correct Answer (b):

The short incubation period of the influenza virus means that infected individuals can transmit the virus before their immune system has fully responded. This increases the risk of spreading the virus to others, particularly vulnerable populations such as the elderly, young children, and those with compromised immune systems. The rapid spread of influenza and the ability of the virus to infect individuals quickly emphasize the need for annual immunization to provide immunity before the flu season starts.

Additional Information:

  • Option (a): While antigenic variation is important and is a reason for updating the vaccine annually, the short incubation period of influenza has a more immediate impact on why the virus spreads so rapidly. Immunization helps mitigate the spread before individuals develop symptoms.

  • Option (c): Influenza does not have a longer incubation period. The virus typically has a short incubation period, which makes the prompt response of vaccination critical. The virus does not wait for immune cells to fully react before it starts infecting others.

  • Option (d): Repeated immunization is actually beneficial, as it boosts the immune system's ability to respond effectively to future infections. It helps create a stronger immune memory, especially in high-risk groups, rather than diminishing the immune response.

Similar Questions

test-prime-package

Access ‘CSIR NET Life Sciences’ Mock Tests with

  • 60000+ Mocks and Previous Year Papers
  • Unlimited Re-Attempts
  • Personalised Report Card
  • 500% Refund on Final Selection
  • Largest Community
students-icon
354k+ students have already unlocked exclusive benefits with Test Prime!
test-prime-package

Access ‘CSIR NET Life Sciences’ Mock Tests with

  • 60000+ Mocks and Previous Year Papers
  • Unlimited Re-Attempts
  • Personalised Report Card
  • 500% Refund on Final Selection
  • Largest Community
students-icon
354k+ students have already unlocked exclusive benefits with Test Prime!
Our Plans
Monthsup-arrow