Inhibition of the Phagocytic Action of Leucocytes by Mumps and Influenza Viruses

Summary

Mumps virus and influenza A virus (PR8) have been shown to reduce the phagocytosis of bacteria by the polymorphonuclear leucocytes of the guinea pig in vitro. This inhibitory effect is destroyed by mild heating of the viruses which leaves their hemagglutinating capacity intact. Mumps antiserum prevents the inhibition of phagocytosis by mumps virus but has no effect on the inhibitory action of influenza virus.