Scientists have discovered that pregnancy may trigger a natural immunity to boost protection against severe flu infection.
Contrary to the common belief that pregnancy increases vulnerability to infections, researchers found that it strengthened an immune defense in mice, blocking the Influenza A virus from spreading to the lungs, where it can cause severe infection.
"Our results are surprising because of the current dogma, but it makes sense from an evolutionary perspective," said co-lead author Dr. Maziar Divangahi, Professor in McGill's Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences and Senior Scientist at the Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre .
The Public Health Agency of Canada recommends pregnant women and pregnant individuals get the flu vaccine, as they are at high risk of severe illness and complications like preterm birth. The new insights offer promise for more targeted vaccines for influenza, which is among the top 10 leading causes of death in Canada.
Pregnancy enhances antiviral immunity independent of type I IFN but dependent on IL-17–producing γδ + T cells in the nasal mucosaInfluenza epidemics, caused by influenza A or B viruses, result in acute respiratory infection. They kill half a million people worldwide every year. These viruses can also wreak havoc on animals, as ...
Influenza Bird Flu Diseases And Conditions Bird Flu Research Virology Mice Biology
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