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U-M Expert Discusses New Flu Strain

ANN ARBOR (WWJ) - A University of Michigan specialist says there is evidence a new flu strain is circulating, but it's much like one we have seen before.

According to flu expert, U-M professor Arnold Monto, the influenza A-H3 N2 virus flu strain is one to which older people would be less susceptible because it's similar to one that circulated twenty years ago.

But there are questions about this virus.

"The problem is that, when we see one of these new viruses, we don't know whether it's going to be spreading extensively or not until we observe what happens," said Monto.

Monto said scientists are at working to stay one step ahead of the strain.

"The virus is being manipulated in the laboratory, so if we do need a vaccine then the time to make a vaccine will be shortened," he said. "So, what we've gotta do right now is be alert, watch what happens, and not to overreact."

Learn more in this video by UMNewsService:

University of Michigan professor discusses the new flu strain by UM News Service on YouTube
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