Neuraminidase antibodies and H5N1: geographic-dependent influenza epidemiology could determine cross-protection against emerging strains

Abstract

We have read with great interest the work of Sandbulte et al. recently published in your journal [1]. In this article, the authors provide evidence for the existence of cross-immunity between the neuraminidase of H5N1 viruses and that of endemic human H1N1 viruses. Age may be an important determining factor in the development of cross-immunity: younger people, having a shorter history of H1N1 exposure, may be disproportionately susceptible to H5N1 infection.