Pathogens can adapt to overcome the vaccine-induced immunity of the host. Mathematical models of pathogen evolution have suggested that vaccination prompts evolution of more virulent strains. Evolutionary trade-offs, that is, the relationships between pathogen's virulence and transmission or pathogen's virulence and host's recovery, play an important role in shaping pathogen evolution. We will discuss how evolutionary trade-offs and the ability of the pathogen to overcome the host's immunity shape the evolution of virulence.
Learning Objectives:
Upon completion, participant will be able to understand the principles of mathematical models of pathogen evolution.
Upon completion, participant will aquire knowledge about the effects of vaccination on the evolution of pathogen's virulence.
Upon completion, participant will learn how immune evasion affects the evolution of pathogen's virulence.
