antigenic shift

influenza A viruses can trade genetic materials with the viruses of other species. Two different strains trade or merge material, a process known as an antigenic shift.

influenza A viruses can trade genetic materials with the viruses of other species. Two different strains trade or merge material, a process known as an antigenic shift.

a segmented genome

RNA genome of influenza virus is segmented in to 7 pieces. It has the unique property of undergoing two types of genetic variation ie antigenic drift and antigenic shift. In antigenic drift the antigenic variations are minor where genetic recombination take place between strains of two similar species whereas in antigenic shift the recombination take place between strains of dissimilar species leading to major antigenic variations and hence seasonal epidemics.