It is important to note that unhindered virus replication in these rare IFN-α-unresponsive cells might initiate a second wave of virus infection in the upper airways shortly after the antiviral state induced by the IFN-α treatment has waned, which could provide an explanation for the transient antiviral effect of IFN-α in the upper airways. The gene discussed is IFNA1; the disease is viral infectious disease.