A rapid response to influenza

摘要

Several programmes have already been implemented to combat flu viruses.They involve creating drugs that target areas of the virus that do not mutate over time. Most seasonal or type A strains of influenza have developed resistance to Tamiflu, one of the few effective treatments for severe symptoms. According to the European surveillance network VIRGIL (Vigilance against viral resistance), a programme that came to an end a few months ago, 70% of seasonal flu strains displayed resistance to Tamiflu during the winter of 2008.