Resistance Development in Influenza A Virus in Mallards Exposed to Oseltamivir
Author Information
Author(s): Järhult Josef D., Muradrasoli Shaman, Wahlgren John, Söderström Hanna, Orozovic Goran, Gunnarsson Gunnar, Bröjer Caroline, Latorre-Margalef Neus, Fick Jerker, Grabic Roman, Lennerstrand Johan, Waldenström Jonas, Lundkvist Åke, Olsen Björn
Primary Institution: Uppsala University
Hypothesis
Can influenza virus in mallards exposed to low levels of oseltamivir develop resistance?
Conclusion
The study found that exposure to oseltamivir can induce the resistance mutation H274Y in influenza A/H1N1 virus in mallards.
Supporting Evidence
- Resistance was not detected at 80 ng/L of oseltamivir.
- H274Y was found in 2 of 127 samples at 1 µg/L.
- At 80 µg/L, H274Y rapidly dominated the viral population.
Takeaway
If ducks drink water with a medicine called oseltamivir, the flu virus can change and become resistant to that medicine.
Methodology
Mallards were infected with influenza A/H1N1 and exposed to different concentrations of oseltamivir in their water to assess resistance development.
Limitations
The study was conducted in a controlled environment, which may not fully replicate natural conditions.
Participant Demographics
Male mallard ducks aged 3–6 months were used in the study.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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