Transient evolutionary epidemiology of viral adaptation and lethal mutagenesis (Updated December 5, 2024).

The article discusses the transient evolutionary epidemiology of viral adaptation and lethal mutagenesis. It explores the interplay between selection, mutation, genetic drift, and within-host dynamics of viral populations, focusing on the effects of beneficial and deleterious mutations. The study aims to understand how a higher mutation rate may impact viral adaptation and discusses the potential of lethal mutagenesis as a treatment for viral infections. This preprint has not yet undergone peer review and provides theoretical insights into the critical mutation rates of various viruses. [Extracted from the article]