Some Obesity Caused by Virii?

As the "epidemic of obesity" continues to rise in America, it turns out someone actually asked the question "Doesn't 'epidemic' imply some kind of disease at work?" Scientific American is reporting that a new study shows certain kinds of contagious viruses do cause an increase in fat in fowl (i.e. chickens, ducks, etc.) who are infected. A class of viruses has been known previously to cause additional fat collection, but this is the first time that it has been shown to be a common class of virii known to be common in the population.

This is not to say that ALL obseity is viral in nature. There are genetic factors as well as behavioral factors. But I know many fat people who eat far less than their thin partners - some who also exercise MORE than their skinny peers - and still continue to gain. This may be the explanation. For now, the article says the scientific team is wondering about innoculations. I can't help wondering if some kind of antiviral may also help those already infected? It is worth considering, if the study can be done without fear of creating drug-resistance virii.