[narby]

All I meant by it is to point out that the field, being as theoretical as it is, leaves room for a great many academic pi$$ing contests. I see no need to add another one to the roster, academic or not, so I'll just bow out now, thanks.

Some people think that Evolution is "theoretical".

Others, make sure that they take all the antibiotic, lest they evolve a super bug within their body that will kill them and perhaps many others.

There are people who've died from such things, you know. It's hardly "theoretical" for them.

They're dead.

[narby]

New Tagline Test;

[Oberon]

Your example, that of influenza virus, is a good case in point. The influenza virus has enough genetic variability to dodge antibodies generated by the host to attack previous generations of the virus.

But...and I'm honestly inquiring, not trying to make a rhetorical point...does the influenza virus ever change into something other than influenza virus, or do successive generations remain simply new and improved influenza viruses?

I don't have the biology background to say, myself. Any information you might have on this topic would be most helpful.