Virology: influenza: practice question

A Microbiology question in the style of the NEET PG paper. Answer it first, then read why the right option is right and why each of the others is wrong.

Try it

Microbiology · Virology: influenza

Sample item

Why does antigenic shift in influenza A have pandemic potential?

Original practice item, not a recalled exam question. Nothing here is recorded.

The answer and the reasoning

B. Reassortment can create a novel haemagglutinin or neuraminidase subtype

Influenza A has a segmented genome, allowing reassortment between strains in a shared host. A novel surface-antigen combination may encounter little population immunity; gradual point mutation is antigenic drift.

Option by option

  • A. It is caused by bacterial superinfection

    Bacterial superinfection is a complication, not the mechanism of shift.

  • B. Reassortment can create a novel haemagglutinin or neuraminidase subtype (correct)

    Correct. Segment reassortment generates abrupt antigenic novelty.

  • C. Point mutations slowly alter one epitope

    Slow point mutations describe antigenic drift.

  • D. The virus integrates into host DNA

    Influenza is an RNA virus that does not require integration for replication.

Source note: Original NextPrep sample item — pending expert review. This item is original practice material awaiting independent expert review, so confirm important facts in a standard textbook.

More Microbiology questions

Questions about this Microbiology question

What is the answer to this Microbiology question?

The best answer is B, Reassortment can create a novel haemagglutinin or neuraminidase subtype. Influenza A has a segmented genome, allowing reassortment between strains in a shared host.

Why is "It is caused by bacterial superinfection" not the answer?

Bacterial superinfection is a complication, not the mechanism of shift.

Why is "Point mutations slowly alter one epitope" not the answer?

Slow point mutations describe antigenic drift.

Why is "The virus integrates into host DNA" not the answer?

Influenza is an RNA virus that does not require integration for replication.

What concept does this question test?

It tests Virology: influenza in Microbiology. A novel surface-antigen combination may encounter little population immunity; gradual point mutation is antigenic drift.

How hard is this question?

We tag it as an application question: it asks you to use a fact on a patient or a finding. The tag is our own editorial judgement, not an official difficulty rating, so read the reason for every option, not only the answer.

How should I study Virology: influenza?

Make a one-line identity card for each organism: shape and stain, defining test, toxin, disease and drug. Then use the flashcards and the other Microbiology questions on this site to test what stuck.

Is this a real NEET PG question?

No. It is an original practice item (editorial status: sample, version 1). NextPrep does not publish recalled or leaked questions, and independent faculty review of this item has not been completed yet, so confirm important facts in a standard textbook.