Understanding the Flu Virus

UNDERSTANDING THE FLU VIRUS
By G.J. Kivett MD

The influenza (flu) virus is composed of a central core where the genetic material (RNA) is tightly wrapped like the inside of a golf ball. The genetic material is like a computer program (software) that directs the manufacturing of the viral structures (proteins). Like a golf ball, the core is surrounded by a shell called the nucleocapsid and the nucleocapsid is covered by a soft envelope.

The soft envelope that surrounds the flu virus is covered by protruding “spikes” that attach to human cells like a sandspur attaches to clothing. Once the virus is attached it “burrows” through the cell’s membrane. Once inside, it takes over the cell’s machinery and reproduces multiple new little viruses (virions). The human cell eventually dies and all the new viruses (virions) are released and seek new cells to invade.

The viruses are then spread in mucous droplets when the infected person, coughs or sneezes. The virus can survive on the skin for up to 20 minutes so they can be transmitted by handshakes or more intimate contact. Any bodily secretion such as stool, saliva and blood can also transmit the virus.

There are three different flu viruses. Influenza A is the most common and highly contagious. Novel H1N1 (Swine Flu) is an Influenza A virus. Influenza B is generally a human only virus; it is less common and less likely to cause world wide infection. Influenza C can cause significant illness and local epidemics.

The Influenza A virus is categorized by the protein spikes on its surface. Hemagglutinin (the H spike) allows the virus to attach to human cells. The Neuraminidase (the N spike) allows the virions to escape from human cells. The antibodies that we produce when we get a flu vaccine are directed against these protein spikes. There are sixteen H types and nine N types. For example the “Hong Kong Flu” is H3N2 and the present “Swine Flu” is H1N1.

Viruses that have thin envelopes, like Influenza A, B and C, are more fragile and easily destroyed by hydrogen peroxide, chlorine, ethyl alcohol, chloroform, phenol freezing, high temperature and ultraviolet irradiation.

To protect yourself from the flu virus it is recommend that you practice frequent hand washing and disinfecting of frequently touched surfaces such as: door knobs, telephones, computer keyboards and counter tops. If you will be caring for an infected person the NT-V2 respirator mask is recommended because if confers protection up to 24 hours. It also provides good protection against tuberculosis. The N-95 and N-100 respirator masks are only good for one to two hours.

It is highly recommended that you get a flu vaccine, and if you qualify for it get the pneumonia vaccine. The drug Tamiflu may help reduce symptoms if you have been exposed to the flu.