Never had the flu? Scientists may know why

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Never had the flu? Scientists may know why

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Scientists estimate somewhere between 5%-35% of people do not get sick from the flu despite being exposed to the virus that causes it. Now, researchers may have figured out why. The team looked at mouthwash samples from 19 healthcare workers who, despite frequent contact with infected patients, report never getting flu symptoms. Today on Short Wave, we talk about how what they found could help scientists develop treatments and strategies to protect people who do get the flu.

If you liked this episode, check out our show on an effort to map the entire immune system.

Interested in more health science? Email us your question at shortwave@npr.org.

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