Water birds, in particular, mallards, are often carriers of low-pathogenic influenza A virus (Source: Wikimedia Commons) Water birds, in particular, mallards, are often carriers of low-pathogenic influenza A virus (Source: Wikimedia Commons)Scientists have discovered that an influenza infection in birds gives a good protection against other subtypes of the virus just like a natural vaccination, a finding that may pave for new strategies to prevent flu in birds and humans. Water birds, in particular, mallards, are often carriers of low-pathogenic influenza A virus. Researchers previously believed that birds infected by one variant of the virus could not benefit from it by building up immunity against other virus subtypes. The study shows that, after an infection, mallards become partially immune and resistant to influenza infections to which they are later exposed. It is unclear why there are more subtypes of influenza among birds than among humans and other mammals.

Source: Indian Express July 01, 2017 09:41 UTC