Host-Targeted Mechanism of Action for Treatment of Seasonal and Pandemic Influenz

DESCRIPTION (provided by applicant): Despite improvements in vaccine design, manufacture, and distribution, influenza A infection remains a significant public health concern. The February 2013 CDC Interim Adjusted Estimates of Seasonal Influenza Vaccine Effectiveness reported overall vaccine effectiveness of 56% and 67% against influenza A and B infections, respectively, with much reduced effectiveness of 9% observed for 65+ elderly, an at-risk population for respiratory complications. Of note, the reportreinforces the need for continued advances in influenza vaccines, especially to increase protective benefits for older adults and notes, this season...antiviral treatment of elderly adults is especially important...preferably within 48 hours after illness onset... This past season's apparent mediocre protection against seasonal influenza also reemphasizes the threat of emergence of highly pathogenic pandemic strains as well as the potential use of influenza as a vehicle for biological warfare. Cur