On episode #304 of the science show This Week in Virology, the TWiV team consults an epidemiologist to forecast the future scope of the Ebola virus epidemic in West Africa. You can find TWiV #304 at www.microbe.tv/twiv.
As the West African epidemic of Ebola virus grows, so does misinformation about the virus, particularly how it is transmitted from person to person. Ebola virus is transmitted from human to human by close contact with infected patients and virus-containing body fluids. It does not spread among humans by respiratory aerosols, the route of transmission of many other …
When will the 2009 swine-origin influenza virus become a seasonal strain? While prediction is very hard, especially of the future (at least according to Yogi Berra), examining past pandemics can be informative. The 1968 pandemic began with the emergence of a novel H3N2 influenza virus in Hong Kong in July 1968. First isolates (stars) were …
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 the antiviral drugs will undoubtedly …
Oseltamivir resistance decreases influenza aerosol transmission Read More »
Here are my answers to questions about swine flu sent by readers of virology blog: Q: Can you please tell me why there is a flu “season”. Influenza is seasonal in temperate climates because conditions found during winter, low temperature and humidity, favor spread of the infection. In the dry conditions of winter, virus-laden respiratory …
I have received several questions about my assertion that the northern hemisphere is safe, at least until the fall, from an epidemic of A/California/09/2009 influenza virus. Here are two representative questions: If I recall correctly, Spanish flu hit hardest during the summer and fall. As for the swine flu, is it impossible (and why?) to …
Swine influenza, seasonality, and the northern hemisphere Read More »
