Posts Tagged ‘strain’

Scientists published in this week’s Nature Medicine journal a significant finding of a new HIV strain isolated in a woman from the African nation of Cameroon. It is distinct from the currently identified three strains and is appears to be closely related to simian strains of HIV found in gorillas. Scientists speculate this new strain started out in the gorilla, or even chimpanzee, population and has jumped to humans. It’s unknown how widespread this strain is, but this discovery reminds us that HIV is a fast-evolving disease and continued efforts should be made in watching for the emergence of new HIV strains. [via Yahoo! News]

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A 23-month old Mexican child who was brought by his parents to the US in search of treatment for swine flu has passed away in Houston. Although the swine flu, like the average flu, tends to affect those with poor immune systems – the very young and the very old – it is not certain why there have been more fatalities in Mexico, the presumed origin of the strain. It may be because there are simply more cases in Mexico, and even more un-diagnosed cases. Another theory is that the virus may have mutated or that a second strain is spreading at the same time. Whatever the reason, medical advise should be sought if you have any symptoms of the flu. As well, make sure to practice good hygiene in order to reduce transmission of communicable diseases.

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