The Quantitative Effects of Cations on Erythrocyte Agglutination by Influenza Virus Vaccine

Abstract

This investigation of a particular lot of distilled water shows that the concentration of metal ions in the water is a critical factor in the agglutination of chicken red cells by influenza virus vaccine. Not only is the total ionic concentration a factor, but certain cations (e.g., Cu) may, by themselves, be capable of exerting a modifying influence. The effect may be of considerable significance if the test vaccine and the standard preparation are not homogeneous as to strain. The CCA values obtained are either elevated or depressed by the ionic concentration, depending upon the total modifying action of the particular combination. Valid reproducible potencies can only be obtained with certainty by the use of triple distilled water or water of comparable purity in the preparation of the saline and buffer solutions.