Abstract
The primary route of entry into the body for many viruses, including herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2) and the influenza virus, is via mucosal surfaces. It follows that, depending on the numbers of virions deposited on such surfaces, their infectious quality and distribution over the mucosal surface, the existence or early mobilisation of specific defence mechanisms at the time of this contact, supplementing or enhancing any non-specific resistance mechanisms already operating at these sites may tip the balance in favour of the host and result in elimination of the invading virus before it can become established in the tissues and produce disease symptoms.