(Gray News) – Getting the flu may result in worse consequences than just being bedridden for a few days, according to new research.

A new study found that some mice who contracted respiratory viruses experienced an activation of cancer cells that were dormant before they got sick.

Researchers said cancer cells can be known to break away from their original tumors and make their way to other parts of the body.

These disseminated cancer cells (DCCs) can lie dormant for years or decades before awakening and developing into new tumors, a process known as metastasis.

New tumors can be developed from these cells even after the original tumor is removed.

Researchers also said previous studies have shown inflammation can trigger cancer metastasis.

Infection by respiratory viruses including i

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