A subtype of asthma in adults may cause higher susceptibility to influenza and could result in dangerous flu mutations.
University of Queensland-led animal studies have found that paucigranulocytic asthma (PGA) – a non-allergic form of the condition – allows the flu virus to flourish in greater numbers in sufferers.
UQ PhD candidate Ms Katina Hulme said this was due to the asthma’s suppression of the immune system.
