The Last of Us on HBO continues to test the audience, with emotional and high-intensity storylines and scenes. Episode 5 of the critically-acclaimed series, based on the much-loved video game of the same name by Naughty Dog, was no exception.
After Sam revealed to Ellie that he had been infected during the chaotic battle in Kansas City, she told him that her blood was “medicine,” revealing her own infection scars. Sadly, the next morning, she woke up to a completely different Sam, who attacked her and was ultimately shot dead by his brother, Henry. Why didn’t Ellie’s blood cure Sam’s infection, and why did he still turn?
Why did Sam turn infected in The Last of Us Episode 5 on HBO?
Despite Ellie meaning well, her blood alone was proven to not be enough to cure somebody of the Cordyceps infection. This is because blood on its own, leaking from a self-inflicted wound, is not scientifically able to cure a virus. While it can be studied in those who are immune to certain viruses, which can then lead to the creation of a vaccine, the simple fact is that for most viruses, there is no cure.
It is never explicitly stated why Ellie is immune in The Last of Us, but many have assumed that her exposure to the Cordyceps fungus as a foetus is what allowed her to build a natural immunity. The Fireflies are hoping that when she is transported to them, they will be able to study her and build a vaccine through what they learn.
Of course, Joel and Ellie will have to make it safely across the country first, before they can do that. Judging by some of the dangers they have faced off against so far, that’s going to be easier said than done.
