Question

Smallpox is an infectious disease that is caused by the variola virus. The disease causes sores that leave permanent marks on the body, and the disease can be deadly. The virus was transmitted between humans for centuries until a vaccine was developed. A global vaccination process eventually eliminated the disease. Despite the absence of naturally occurring smallpox cases since the late 1970s, scientists have maintained samples of the variola virus in two laboratories. Which statement describes the most significant reason for maintaining these cultures of the variola virus?

© Medical doctors can have access to this infectious viral agent when treating patients who have common viral ~ diseases.
© Scientists can use the virus during investigations that combine the traits of multiple infectious viruses into a
noninfectious virus.
© Researchers can prepare for similar threats by investigating this virus for mutations that produce traits able to
increase its infectious rate.
© Microbiologists can ensure that the nucleotide sequence information that codes for the traits of an infectious viral
agent remains the same.

Answer 1

Answer:a

Step-by-step explanation:

Answer 2

my opinion

Step-by-step explanation:

The most significant reason for maintaining cultures of the variola virus is to allow researchers to investigate the virus and develop better treatments and vaccines in case of a future outbreak. Therefore, the statement that best describes the reason for maintaining these cultures is: "Researchers can prepare for similar threats by investigating this virus for mutations that produce traits able to increase its infectious rate." It is important to note that the virus is kept in highly secure facilities, and access is strictly controlled to prevent accidental release or deliberate misuse.