Canadian scientists genetically sequence virus

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Source: CCTV.com | 05-07-2009 13:22

Canadian scientists say they have completed genetic sequencing of the A/H1N1 virus. They say it's a step forward in understanding how the virus works.

Flu tests strips can be seen in a laboratory. (AFP/DDP/File/Nigel Treblin)

The sequencing will also help with the development of a vaccine.

The lab has submitted the sequencing to GenBank. That's a public database where genetic sequencing information can be studied and compared by scientists around the world.

The genetic sequencing of the virus in Canada has ruled out a mutation to explain why the Mexican cases have been much more severe than elsewhere.

They say scientists cannot yet give the exact reason. But one theory is that the patients have underlying medical conditions that increased their susceptibility to the virus.

Editor:Zhang Pengfei