Possibility of a Future Avian Flu Pandemic Essay -- Bird Flu Influenza

Possibility of a Future Avian Flu Pandemic Influenza is a dangerous virus and highly contagious that has potential to devastate populations should an outbreak occur. A common influenza virus that humans are familiar with is the human influenza. Researchers and scientists are concerned about an especially threatening strain of influenza virus called H5N1, commonly known as the avian flu. Although this flu is mainly susceptible to wild birds, there have been outbreaks that show that humans also become infected. Predictions that the H5N1 strain may lead to a global pandemic are fueling further research of the virus. Studies show that although this virus is currently under control, it is possible that it could mutate and become a worldwide catastrophe. Influenza is a virus that attacks the upper respiratory tract. Influenza, known most, as the Flu is usually painful and can perpetuate symptoms for up to 2 weeks. If everyone had the Flu all of mankind will vanish. Because influenza is a virus there are not any antibiotics that will cure an infection. The human body is designed to fight viral infections through the immune response. Although rarely fatal, the virus usually kills people with weak immune systems, which are often elderly people and young children. About 35,000 people die each year. (Paul Tambyah-pg 6) More public education is needed so that the general population can identify symptoms and seek timely treatment. Getting the flu shot can really save the hassle of being infected. If someone has come down with this virus, stressing out about everyday things can irritate the immune system. Influenza, which belong to a family of viruses called Orthomyxoviruses was first discovered in 1918 and was thought of as a fragile vir... ... ? If handling an infected patient be sure to sterilize all instruments used. The world can never be too cautious for certain illnesses such as this one. There are many strains of the influenza virus. These two viruses are similar and different in a way. Universally scientists and researchers are trying to keep this issue from becoming the worlds next pandemic. Although the virus mutates and changes each year we should not worry, but we should be concerned and follow safe steps as shown above. Keeping the world safe is what we all want and need which will be beneficial for the generations that are soon to come. Bibliography 1. Nemours Foundation- http://kidshealth.org/teen/infections/bacterial_viral/flu.html -Title: Flu facts 2. Bird Flu by Paul Tambyah 3. World health organization- http://www.who.int/csr/disease/avian_influenza/en/ -Title: avian influenza