Researchers have created the first universal flu shot - KCBD NewsChannel 11 Lubbock

7/16/10

Researchers have created the first universal flu shot

Posted:

By Karin McCay| email

Edited by Kristin Beerman | email 

LUBBOCK, TX (KCBD) –  Right now vaccine manufacturers come up with a new flu shot every year because the virus constantly changes, but soon you may only need one flu vaccine for life. 

Researchers at the NIH say they've developed what is actually a two part vaccine that could provide immunity from all strains of the virus. The first shot uses DNA to prime the immune system, the second is a booster shot using the regular flu vaccine formulation. 

Experts found mice and ferrets that were vaccinated were protected from several flu strains, dating from 1934. Studies in humans are expected to start soon.

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