The new H1N1 influenza virus bears a disturbing resemblance to the virus strain that caused the 1918 flu pandemic, with a greater ability to infect the lungs than common seasonal flu viruses, researchers reported on Monday.
Tests in several animals confirmed other studies that have shown the new swine flu strain can spread beyond the upper respiratory tract to go deep into the lungs — making it more likely to cause pneumonia, the international team said.
Related Articles
- Flu Kills One-Third Fewer in U.S. Yearly Than Previous Estimate (businessweek.com)
- Swine flu shot protects against 1918 flu – study (reuters.com)
- Swine Flu Lacks Killer Molecule (wired.com)
