Evidence for viral interference and cross-reactive protective immunity between influenza B virus lineages

Abstract

Background. Two influenza B virus lineages, B/Victoria and B/Yamagata, cocirculate in the human population. While the lineages are serologically distinct, cross-reactive responses to both lineages have been detected. Viral interference describes the situation whereby infection with one virus limits infection and replication of a second virus. We investigated the potential for viral interference between the influenza B virus lineages. Methods. Ferrets were infected and then challenged 3, 10, or 28 days later with pairs of influenza B/Victoria and B/Yamagata viruses. Results. Viral interference occurred at challenge intervals of 3 and 10 days and occasionally at 28 days. At the longer interval..