When will we find a cure for influenza?

Seasonal influenza vaccines are produced to target a specific strain of influenza each year, but a universal vaccine is difficult to develop.

Most of us have had the flu virus at some point.

Currently, a seasonal influenza vaccine that targets a specific "type" of influenza can be given.

The problem with this is that the virus changes shape every year, forming a new strain and rendering the previous bench strike ineffective.

Scientists from the US National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases are trying to overcome this by developing a "universal" influenza vaccine.

It is hoped that vaccination, followed by a few booster vaccinations, will provide lifelong immune protection. It works by targeting the part of the virus that does not change its shape, providing broader protection against different strains of influenza.

Seasonal influenza vaccines are produced to target a specific strain of influenza each year, but a universal vaccine is more difficult to develop.