Abstract
Summary
Properties of 2 new viruses of human origin recovered from the human oro-pharynx are described. These agents were found to be less than 30 mμ in size and ether resistant. By inference they were found to contain RNA. These properties are consistent with their classification as picornaviruses.
Both agents were unstable in acid pH; thus they were designated as rhinoviruses. The viruses were immunologically distinct from each other and from all previously characterized rhinoviruses. Nineteen other virus strains serologically related to the prototype viruses were recovered from recruits at a military training camp. Statistical analysis suggested that viruses similar to prototype strain 1200 were associated with occurrence of mild “cold-like” illnesses. These studies also indicated that homologous neutralizing antibodies protected against infection by these viruses.
The authors take pleasure in acknowledging the capable technical assistance of Mrs. Carol Uhlendorf, Mrs. Lena Wetherall, Mr. Conard Davis, Mr. Lloyd Gauld and Mr. Harvey James.
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