👉 Copy-infection is a phenomenon where genetic material from one virus is transferred to another virus during co-infection of a host cell, leading to the creation of a new, hybrid virus. This process can occur through mechanisms such as recombination or reassortment, depending on the type of viruses involved. For instance, in segmented viruses like influenza, reassortment can lead to significant genetic changes, potentially resulting in new strains with altered properties, such as increased virulence or resistance to existing vaccines. In some cases, this genetic exchange can also facilitate the emergence of novel pathogens, posing new challenges for public health. Understanding copy-infection is crucial for predicting and managing viral outbreaks and developing effective countermeasures.
