An immune response to influenza infection requires robust production of interferons and an innate response by neutrophils, macrophages and dendritic cells resulting in activation of CD4+ and CD8+ T cells (2); however, the primary mechanisms of influenza pathogenesis are direct lung infection and subsequent compromise of lung's physiology due to infection of the respiratory epithelium, combined with the results of lung inflammation by the host's attempt to contain the virus (16). The gene discussed is CD8A; the disease is influenza.