Reply #12: Mortality in Mexico is highest for 20-40 year olds..

[targetpractice]

H1N1 type flu strains are known to cause "cytokine storms" in healthy immune systems, in which an immune-response process occurs in the body between cytokines and immune cells. The immune system's strong response can cause inflammation and fluid leakage into the lungs... and death as a result.

In this case... a healthy immune system is actually a liability rather than an asset.

Currently, in the US... a disproportionate number of cases are children (where mortality rates are lower). It's possible that children are undercounted in Mexico City, because the flu virus does not make them as ill as healthy adults who report to the hospital.