Scientists in Melbourne have developed a promising experimental flu treatment that could help prevent patients from becoming seriously ill, potentially reducing the risk of deadly complications such as pneumonia.
Bacterial pneumonia, which can develop after a bout of influenza, claims the lives of hundreds of elderly Australians each year. Until now, there has been no effective treatment to prevent this condition.
Researchers at the Hudson Institute of Medical Research say they have identified a small peptide that mimics a naturally occurring protein in the human body. According to Associate Professor Michelle Tate, this peptide can reduce the severity of influenza infections when administered.
The experimental treatment, named LAT9997, was tested on mice infected with the flu. Results showed that just two doses significantly reduced lung damage by limiting the growth of the virus and controlling the body’s inflammatory response.
The next stage involves human clinical trials to determine whether the treatment is safe and effective. Researchers are hopeful that it could eventually be developed into an inhaler, similar to an asthma puffer, allowing high-risk individuals to use it at home at the onset of flu symptoms.
Lead researcher Allison West said the innovation could help reduce hospital admissions and ease pressure on overcrowded healthcare systems if proven successful.
