Influenza (Avian and 1918)

Six years ago I read Flu: The Story of the Great Influenza Pandemic of 1918 and the Search for the Virus That Caused It, by Gina Kolata. Last week represented a significant step in understanding where the 1918 flu came from and why it was so deadly. Tara Smith of Aetiology summarizes that story here. (If you are interested in infectious diseases, keep an eye on Aetiology.)

She has also done a series of posts dealing with avian influenza. Check them out.

Day 1: History of Pandemic Influenza.

Day 2: Our adventures with avian flu.

Day 3: Challenges to pandemic preparedness

Day 4: 1918 influenza virus reconstructed

Day 5: How ready are we, and what can YOU do?