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. ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

Influenza virus may be transmitted among humans in three ways: (1) by direct contact with infected individuals; (2) by contact with contaminated objects (called fomites, such as toys, doorknobs); and (3) by inhalation of virus-laden aerosols. The contribution of each mode to overall transmission of influenza is not known. However, ...