Measuring the Infectious Dose of Seasonal H1N1 Influenza in Ferrets
Author Information
Author(s): Heather MacInnes, Yue Zhou, Kristine Gouveia, Jenna Cromwell, Kristin Lowery, R. Colby Layton, Michael Zubelewicz, Rangarajan Sampath, Steven Hofstadler, Yushi Liu, Yung-Sung Cheng, Frederick Koster
Primary Institution: Lovelace Respiratory Research Institute
Hypothesis
What is the aerosol infectious dose for 50% of seronegative ferrets exposed to seasonal H1N1 influenza virus?
Conclusion
The aerosol infectious dose for the seasonal H1N1 virus was found to be approximately 4 infectious virus particles under the exposure conditions used.
Supporting Evidence
- The study found that 62% of ferrets exposed to high levels of aerosolized virus seroconverted.
- Viral cultures were almost always negative, suggesting less contagion after aerosol exposure.
- The T5000 assay was significantly more sensitive than standard RT-qPCR for detecting viral RNA.
Takeaway
Scientists wanted to find out how much of the seasonal flu virus it takes to make ferrets sick, and they discovered that just a few virus particles can do it.
Methodology
Ferrets were exposed to aerosolized seasonal H1N1 virus in a controlled environment, and viral RNA was collected and analyzed to determine the infectious dose.
Potential Biases
The reliance on specific exposure conditions may introduce bias in estimating the infectious dose.
Limitations
The study's design may have restricted inhalation to smaller virus particles, potentially affecting the results.
Participant Demographics
Ferrets weighing between 800 to 1200 grams were used in the study.
Statistical Information
P-Value
4 FFU
Confidence Interval
1.8 to 186
Statistical Significance
p<0.0001
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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