Blood group H antigen of influenza A2 virus

Abstract

McDonald and Zuckerman1have demonstrated statistically that there are a large number of blood group O patients and a relatively few of group A among those infected with influenza A2 virus. Subsequent studies 2-4have indicated, however, that an antibody against influenza was more commonly found in sera of group O persons than group A. Potter and Schild2suggested that such a divergency in influenza infection was influenced by genetic factors related to ABO blood groups. We have examined influenza viruses for blood group antigens in order to obtain evidence for any possible relationship between influenza and ABO blood groups. © 1970 Nature Publishing Group.