Cannabis Science Inc. (OTCBB: CBIS), an emerging pharmaceutical cannabis company, is making its anti-inflammatory formulation that targets influenza symptoms one of its top priority drugs to release, as the latest Swine flu numbers are rapidly increasing and have become quite alarming. Research indicates that the current H1N1 influenza virus has disturbing similarities to the 1918 pandemic, which killed tens of millions after World War I. Moreover, the young and otherwise healthy population that has been most susceptible to the H1N1 virus is a similar demographic to those most affected in the 1918 outbreak.

Swine flu, Bird Flu and all influenza strains that elicit excessive inflammatory immune response are targeted with Cannabis Science formulations. The company is developing its strategy for studying the effects of its cannabis lozenge on influenza deaths that are associated with an excessive inflammatory response. A hyper-inflammatory response appears to be the cause of the high mortality (63%) associated with the Avian flu (H5N1), and recent studies indicate a similar risk with the Swine flu (H1N1) as well. The World Health Organization (WHO) released the latest figures and said the virus was "unstoppable" and had become widespread enough to raise the global Swine flu alert to its highest level.

Dr. Robert Melamede, Ph.D., Cannabis Science Inc. President & CEO, observed, "Contemporary anti-viral medical technology is currently inadequate to meet the World's immediate challenges in dealing with the rapid mutations and infectivity of the numerous influenza viruses. We believe that cannabis extract-based medicines can reduce influenza deaths, and allow infected individuals to develop a strong natural immunity upon recovery."

Specifically, Cannabis Science Inc. believes that its whole-cannabis extract lozenge will inhibit the development of ARDS (Adult Respiratory Distress Syndrome) associated with deaths from both the Avian and Swine influenza infections. Dr. Melamede believes there is enormous potential value for cannabinoids that naturally prevent excessive inflammatory immune responses. He stated, "Based upon recent discoveries regarding the role that endocannabinoid system plays in maintaining human health, we may have a unique solution to the looming threat posed by deadly influenza strains, which we believe, if implemented, could save millions of lives."

Previously, Dr. Melamede urged all cannabis consumers, "If you come down with the flu, cease smoking and switch to edibles. We believe that smoking marijuana when a person has influenza will lead to some unnecessary deaths, whereas eating it can prevent unnecessary deaths."