Viral mutation is a natural part of the lifespan of a new virus. Dramatic headlines of impending doom are often historically unwarranted, yet such headlines continue as little more than ill-informed discussion of a natural process that does not necessarily have a negative impact.
What is the purpose of these headlines? Are they designed to scare people?
There are many reasons for increasing fears about natural viral mutation, ranging from public policy control to securing governmental funds for a purported solution. Viruses naturally seek to replicate; if they kill the host, they cannot survive. Thus, they tend to mutate into less virulent strains to extend their lifespan.
We must not conflate transmissibility with virulence, which is the actual level of danger.