33. Using Biology to Recalculate the Pandemic's Future w/ Vineet Menachery

Follow the Science

What can the scientific study of the delta variant tell us about the pandemic’s future? Does it make sense go back to taking precautions to deal with a temporary setback, or is it time we all learn how to live with some risk? Today I talk with immunologist and microbiologist Vineet Menachery from the University of Texas Medical Branch. He explains how the virus gets into cells, and why the delta variant does it better than earlier forms of the virus. He explains why a future variant that evades vaccine-induced antibodies probably wouldn’t be as transmissible – it’s going to be hard for the virus to improve in both ways simultaneously. He also explains why he plans to get his young children vaccinated when it’s approved for them.

“Follow the Science" is produced, written, and hosted by Faye Flam, with funding by the Society for Professional Journalists. Today’s episode was edited by Seth Gliksman with music by Kyle Imperatore. If you’d like to hear more "Follow the Science," please like, follow, and subscribe!