George Hirst (virologist)

George Keble Hirst (1909-1994) was an American virologist renowned for his significant contributions to the field of influenza research. Hirst is best known for his discovery of hemagglutination, the ability of influenza viruses to agglutinate (clump together) red blood cells. This phenomenon, discovered in 1941, provided a simple and rapid method for quantifying influenza viruses and antibodies, revolutionizing influenza research and diagnosis.

Hirst's hemagglutination assay became a cornerstone technique for studying influenza virus biology, immunology, and epidemiology. It allowed researchers to quickly determine the concentration of viruses in samples, measure antibody responses to infection or vaccination, and track the spread of influenza outbreaks. The hemagglutination inhibition (HI) assay, a derivative of Hirst's discovery, remains a standard test for measuring influenza immunity to this day.

Beyond hemagglutination, Hirst made other important contributions to virology. He investigated the mechanisms of influenza virus entry into cells and the genetic variation of influenza viruses. He also played a key role in developing influenza vaccines.

Hirst received his B.A. and M.D. degrees from Yale University. He spent most of his career at the Rockefeller Institute for Medical Research (later Rockefeller University) in New York City, where he headed a laboratory dedicated to influenza research. He was a member of the National Academy of Sciences and received numerous awards and honors for his scientific achievements. His work laid the foundation for much of our understanding of influenza viruses and has had a lasting impact on public health.