The effects of simultaneous or serial infections with SARS-CoV-2 and influenza virus are unknown. Here, we report that, in a hamster model, SARS-CoV-2 infection at the same time as or prior to H3N2 influenza virus infection resulted in significantly reduced influenza virus titers in the lungs and nasal turbinates of infected animals. This interference of influenza virus replication may correlate with SARS-CoV-2-induced expression of the antiviral gene MX1.
SARS-CoV-2 Interference of Influenza Virus Replication in Syrian Hamsters