Service Spotlight: Ferret Influenza Transmission Studies

Ferrets: The Gold Standard in Influenza Transmission Studies

In preclinical research, ferrets are regarded as the premier animal model for conducting relevant influenza efficacy and transmission studies. Their susceptibility to human influenza viruses and similarity in respiratory tract biology make them invaluable for understanding the complexities of both H1N1 and H5N1 influenza strains. At IITRI, we specialize in conducting robust influenza studies using ferret models for development of effective vaccines and therapeutics and subsequent vaccine GLP toxicology studies.

H1N1: Unraveling the Secrets of Seasonal Flu

H1N1 strains (such as swine flu), remains a significant public health concern. Our ferret studies have provided crucial insights into:

• Transmission dynamics between infected and naive ferrets
• Viral shedding patterns and duration
• The efficacy of novel antiviral treatments
• Immune responses and the potential for developing universal flu vaccines

These studies are instrumental in improving understanding of H1N1’s behavior and developing new therapeutics and vaccines for seasonal outbreaks.

H5N1: Preparing for Potential Pandemics

New strains of highly pathogenic H5N1 avian influenza virus (bird flu) continue to emerge and pose a threat of sparking another global pandemic. Our pandemic flu ferret studies focus on:

• Assessing the pandemic potential of emerging H5N1 strains and testing against current library strains
• Evaluating transmission routes (respiratory droplets vs. direct contact)
• Testing the effectiveness of new vaccines and therapeutic approaches

By leveraging our expertise in ferret models and BSL-3 labs, we provide invaluable data to help the scientific community stay one step ahead of new emerging influenza strains like H5N1.

Why Choose IITRI for Influenza Challenge and Efficacy Studies?

Our dedicated team of virologists, immunologists, and animal care specialists offers:

Partner with IITRI to accelerate your influenza and infectious disease research and contribute to global preparedness against both seasonal and pandemic influenza threats. Contact us today to discuss how our animal model expertise can advance your preclinical influenza studies.