CDC investigating mutated flu virus in NC

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CDC investigating mutated flu virus in NC

Raleigh, N.C. — State and federal public health officials are examining a

cluster of influenza B viruses found only in North Carolina that appear to be

less responsive to a common antiviral drug than typical flu viruses.

A genetic change in the viruses not seen in samples from other states makes them

harder to treat with Tamiflu, officials said Monday.

" These particular viruses are less sensitive to the drug in the lab, but they

are not resistant, " Dr. Zack of the state Division of Public Health said

in a statement. " We want to assure physicians and their patients that antiviral

drugs remain an effective treatment for influenza. "

Thirty-one viruses with this genetic change were collected from 92 samples from

North Carolina patients between November and February.

" The reason we do this is to try to detect small changes early on and see if

they have any clinical significance or not, " said Dr. Davies, chief

epidemiologist for the Division of Public Health...

http://www.wral.com/lifestyles/healthteam/story/9344147/