Serious flu risk could be identified with genetic test

Findings show that the severity of infection can be partially governed by a person's genetic make-up, and opens the door to new types of anti-viral drugs

People who are at risk of falling seriously ill with the flu could be identified by a genetic test and encouraged to have the seasonal vaccination, researchers say.

The NHS offers flu jabs for people who are known to be most in danger from the virus, including the over-65s, pregnant women, and those with underlying health problems, such as asthma.