Okay, ladies … it seems like there IS such a thing as the “man flu”. Why? It’s in the DNA.
1. First, Researchers Gathered Both Men And Women Testers
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They exposed them to the influenza A virus via the nasal cells and estrogen.The scientists were specifically looking to see if estrogen had an effect.
2. And It Did!
Those female cells treated with a higher level of estrogen from 24-72 hours prior to infection, showed a greater resistance to infection.
3. Will This Work For Other Viruses?
Researchers are not quite sure why females were able to fight off the flu better. But, other studies have shown that estrogens may have antiviral properties against HIV, Ebola and hepatitis virus as well.