H1N1 virus 'outcompetes' seasonal flu

The H1N1 virus, known as swine flu, may be able to biologically outcompete seasonal influenza, according to a new study.

Researchers from the University of Maryland found through a study on animals that the H1N1 virus has advantages over the more common disease.

Levels of the H1N1 virus increased faster than the seasonal strain, while more severe symptoms were also caused.

In addition, swine flu was able to be transmitted quicker between infected and non-infected animals.

Anthony S Fauci, director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID), said that the study "provides important information about how the 2009 H1N1 influenza virus interacts with other flu virus strains".

He added: "The results suggest that 2009 H1N1 influenza may outcompete seasonal flu virus strains and may be more communicable as well."

NIAID, which also worked on the research, has called for vaccinations against both the H1N1 virus and seasonal influenza.

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