Influenza A and B Virus Attachment to Respiratory Tract in Marine Mammals

Abstract

Patterns of virus attachment to the respiratory tract of 4 marine mammal species were determined for avian and human influenza viruses. Attachment of avian influenza A viruses (H4N5) and (H7N7) and human influenza B viruses to trachea and bronchi of harbor seals is consistent with reported influenza outbreaks in this species.

Keywords

• influenza
• viruses
• virus attachment
• virus receptors
• influenza A virus
• influenza B virus