The ferret model for influenza.

A major challenge in influenza research is the selection of an appropriate animal model that accurately reflects the disease and protective immune response to influenza infection in humans. Ferrets are exquisitely susceptible to infection with human influenza viruses and are widely believed to be the ideal small animal model for influenza research. Mice have also been used for influenza vaccine research for decades. Ferrets are used as an animal model for the study of influenza because they are susceptible to human influenza viruses and develop some of the symptoms of influenza that are seen in humans. Although they are not discussed in detail in this unit, hamsters, guinea pigs, and both cotton rats (Sigmodon) and rats (Rattus) have also been used for influenza research.