Virology
Swine influenza A/Mexico/2009 (H1N1) update
By Vincent Racaniello
Here is an update on the global swine flu situation as of 29 April 2009. There are now 257 laboratory confirmed cases, with 7 deaths, in 11 countries. In the US there are 109 cases in 11 states. There are many more suspected cases; together the statistics indicate widespread dissemination ...
Structure of influenza virus
By Vincent Racaniello
In this week's discussion of swine flu A/Mexico/09 (H1N1), we have considered many aspects of influenza virus biology that might not be familiar to some readers of virology blog. I thought it might be useful to explain how the virus multiplies, how it infects us, and how we combat infection. ...
Swine flu A/Mexico/2009 (H1N1): Questions and answers
By Vincent Racaniello
Here are my answers to questions about swine flu sent by readers of virology blog: Q: Am I missing something? How can a summer pandemic be unprecedented? You cited a pretty famous example of one. In fact nearly all of your examples seem to have occurred partly or mostly "out ...
Oseltamivir resistance decreases influenza aerosol transmission
By Vincent Racaniello
The isolates of influenza virus obtained in the current global outbreak have proven to be resistant to the adamantane antivirals, but susceptible to oseltamivir (Tamiflu) and zanamivir (Relenza). Consequently the two neuraminidase inhibitors will likely be used extensively to control the outbreak until a vaccine is available. Extended use of ...
Swine influenza A/Mexico/2009 (H1N1) update
By Vincent Racaniello
Here is an update on the global swine flu situation as of 29 April 2009. Not surprisingly, laboratory confirmed case counts continue to rise globally. There are 91 cases in the US in 10 states (Arizona, California, Indiana, Kansas, Massachusetts, Michigan, Nevada, New York, Ohio, Texas). There has been a ...