High temperature (30 C) blocks aerosol but not contact transmission of influenza virus

AC Lowen, J Steel, S Mubareka, P Palese - Journal of virology, 2008 - Am Soc Microbiol
AC Lowen, J Steel, S Mubareka, P Palese
Journal of virology, 2008Am Soc Microbiol
Influenza causes significant morbidity in tropical regions; however, unlike in temperate
zones, influenza in the tropics is not strongly associated with a given season. We have
recently shown that influenza virus transmission in the guinea pig model is most efficient
under cold, dry conditions, which are rare in the tropics. Herein, we report the lack of aerosol
transmission at 30° C and at all humidities tested. Conversely, transmission via the contact
route was equally efficient at 30° C and 20° C. Our data imply that contact or short-range …
Abstract
Influenza causes significant morbidity in tropical regions; however, unlike in temperate zones, influenza in the tropics is not strongly associated with a given season. We have recently shown that influenza virus transmission in the guinea pig model is most efficient under cold, dry conditions, which are rare in the tropics. Herein, we report the lack of aerosol transmission at 30°C and at all humidities tested. Conversely, transmission via the contact route was equally efficient at 30°C and 20°C. Our data imply that contact or short-range spread predominates in the tropics and offer an explanation for the lack of a well-defined, recurrent influenza season affecting tropical and subtropical regions of the world.
American Society for Microbiology