Update on Spread of Avian Flu

The outbreak of a highly pathogenic avian influenza, H5N1, has been confirmed in 11 humans now, killing eight of them and spreading panic throughout Asia, according to the World Health Organization (WHO, Geneva, Switzerland). Although it has not happened yet, WHO says this flu presents a risk of evolving into an efficient and dangerous human pathogen.

To prevent further cases, the mass slaughter of chickens is taking place in several countries. WHO stresses the need for personal protection of these workers, who are at high risk of exposure to a virus that has demonstrated its capacity to cause severe disease and death to humans. Those who are organizing culling operations in affected countries need to ensure that the WHO recommendations are followed as strictly as possible. These include the use of goggles and preferably N95 respirator masks, as well as specific types of protective clothing that can either be disinfected or discarded after use. WHO also recommends that effective antiviral drugs be readily available for treatment of suspected H5N1 respiratory infections in cullers and farm workers.

According to a joint statement by the WHO, the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), and the World Organization for Animal Health (OIE), the widespread occurrence of avian flu in animals in developing countries represents a significant control challenge. They appeal to donors to address this global threat and to provide funds and technical assistance to help eliminate the threat and to avert a human and animal pandemic.

Laboratory characterization of several viruses by WHO network laboratories has helped to compare viruses taken from infected birds and humans in January 2004 with viruses obtained from birds several months ago. Results indicate that the virus has been circulating in parts of Asia longer than initially presumed, perhaps as long ago as April 2003.




Related Links:
World Health Organization (WHO)