SYNERGISTIC ACTIVITY BETWEEN PR8 INFLUENZA VIRUS AND STAPHYLOCOCCUS AUREUS IN THE GUINEA PIG.

Abstract

Abstract : The synergistic interaction of influenza virus (Type A, PR8 strain) and Staphylococcus aureus in guinea pigs was studied by aerosol exposures to mixtures of the organisms. The reaction of the host was a toxic death occurring within 48 hours. Quantitative studies of this phenomenon have shown that the concentration of virus ad ministered was critical. On the other hand, in activated or partially inactivated staphylococci, in combination with the virus, were capable of inducing high mortality in guinea pigs. No significant differences were observed between the multiplication of either organism and the corresponding single-agent controls. Evidence suggesting a possible mechanism of toxic action is discussed.