Flu infection study increases understanding of natural immunity

(NIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases) People with higher levels of antibodies against the stem portion of the influenza virus hemagglutinin (HA) protein have less viral shedding when they get the flu, but don't have fewer or less severe signs of illness, according to a new study. This NIAID study is the first of its kind to evaluate pre-existing levels of these antibodies as a predictor of protection against influenza. The findings could have implications for flu vaccine development.
Source: EurekAlert! - Infectious and Emerging Diseases - Category: Infectious Diseases Source Type: news