Prognosis
Merck Covid Drug Linked to New Virus Mutations, Study Says
- So far, new versions aren’t more lethal, immune-evasive
- Merck disputes study’s claim, says drug is ‘valuable’
Lagevrio
Photographer: Donato Fasano/Getty ImagesThis article is for subscribers only.
Merck & Co.’s Covid-19 pill is giving rise to new mutations of the virus in some patients, according to a study that underscores the risk of trying to intentionally alter the pathogen’s genetic code.
Some researchers worry the drug may create more contagious or health-threatening variations of Covid, which has killed more than 6.8 million people globally over the past three years.