How well do you know flu? Influenza Types
By wantearnings
@wantearnings (7)
Philippines
July 21, 2011 7:29am CST
What do the so called H1N1 or H5N1 means? What do this two letters: H and N mean? and why does it numbers?? isn't it weird..? do you have any idea tough?
1 response
@Ghajini (776)
• Philippines
21 Jul 11
Well H stands for hemagglutinin and N for neuraminidase. According to a member of one site where in I found out the answer regarding your question. Influenza A virus strains are categorized according to these two proteins found on the surface of the virus.
As for the numbers of H and N, they are assigned based on which form of protein these strains contain. Like 16H 9N are subtypes known to birds.
I advice that if you want further elaboration on this matter, is that you search it for yourself in the internet :).
