A one-size-fits-all flu cure might not be far away if newly discovered antibodies can be shown safe for use in humans. The antibodies, which attack influenza viruses differently from current drugs, would eliminate the need for yearly vaccine overhauls by attacking a wide variety of flu strains.

Test on mice have proven promising in attacking Influenza A strains, including H5N1, better known as avian or bird flu. And because of the way the antibodies operate—attacking the static “neck” of the virus instead of the more easily reached and constantly mutating outer spikes—they could provide protection on the frontlines of a high risk or pandemic situation, according to a Rueters article.

"We were surprised and actually delighted to find that these antibodies neutralized a majority of other influenza viruses, including the regular seasonal (H1N1 strain of) flu," Researcher Robert Liddington of the Burnham Institute for Medical Research is quoted as saying in the Rueters article.

The group of researchers, funded by the National Institutes of Health, published their findings in the journal Nature Structure & Molecular Biology this week.

Despite a positive reception by many in the medical research community, the new study is not without detractors, the New York Times reports. At least one biochemist countered that human immune systems would have discovered the viral weakness long ago. He also pointed out that “huge doses of antibodies, which are expensive and cumbersome to infuse” were needed to protect the mice.