Published , Modified Abstract on Why This Bird Flu is Different: Scientists Say New Avian Influenza Requires Urgent Coordinated Response Original source
Why This Bird Flu is Different: Scientists Say New Avian Influenza Requires Urgent Coordinated Response
The world is facing a new threat from avian influenza, and scientists are warning that it requires an urgent coordinated response. The new strain of bird flu, known as H7N9, has already caused several outbreaks in China and has the potential to spread globally. In this article, we will explore why this bird flu is different from previous strains and what measures need to be taken to prevent its spread.
What is H7N9?
H7N9 is a strain of avian influenza that was first identified in China in 2013. Unlike previous strains of bird flu, H7N9 can infect humans without causing any visible symptoms in birds. This makes it difficult to detect and control the spread of the virus.
How is H7N9 different from previous strains?
H7N9 is different from previous strains of bird flu in several ways. Firstly, it has a higher mortality rate than other strains, with around 30% of people who contract the virus dying from it. Secondly, it can be transmitted from birds to humans without causing any visible symptoms in birds. This makes it difficult to detect and control the spread of the virus. Finally, H7N9 has shown resistance to antiviral drugs such as Tamiflu, making it even more difficult to treat.
Why does H7N9 require an urgent coordinated response?
H7N9 requires an urgent coordinated response for several reasons. Firstly, the virus has already caused several outbreaks in China and has the potential to spread globally. Secondly, the virus has a high mortality rate and can be transmitted from birds to humans without causing any visible symptoms in birds. This makes it difficult to detect and control the spread of the virus. Finally, H7N9 has shown resistance to antiviral drugs, making it even more difficult to treat.
What measures need to be taken to prevent the spread of H7N9?
Several measures need to be taken to prevent the spread of H7N9. Firstly, surveillance systems need to be put in place to detect and monitor the virus. This includes monitoring bird populations and testing humans who have been in contact with infected birds. Secondly, public health measures need to be implemented to prevent the spread of the virus. This includes educating the public about the risks of bird flu and promoting good hygiene practices such as washing hands regularly. Finally, research needs to be conducted into developing a vaccine for H7N9.
Conclusion
In conclusion, H7N9 is a new strain of avian influenza that requires an urgent coordinated response. The virus has already caused several outbreaks in China and has the potential to spread globally. It is different from previous strains of bird flu in several ways, including its high mortality rate and resistance to antiviral drugs. To prevent the spread of H7N9, surveillance systems need to be put in place, public health measures need to be implemented, and research needs to be conducted into developing a vaccine.
FAQs
1. What is H7N9?
H7N9 is a strain of avian influenza that was first identified in China in 2013.
2. How is H7N9 different from previous strains?
H7N9 can infect humans without causing any visible symptoms in birds, has a higher mortality rate than other strains, and has shown resistance to antiviral drugs.
3. Why does H7N9 require an urgent coordinated response?
H7N9 requires an urgent coordinated response because it has already caused several outbreaks in China and has the potential to spread globally.
4. What measures need to be taken to prevent the spread of H7N9?
Surveillance systems need to be put in place, public health measures need to be implemented, and research needs to be conducted into developing a vaccine.
This abstract is presented as an informational news item only and has not been reviewed by a subject matter professional. This abstract should not be considered medical advice. This abstract might have been generated by an artificial intelligence program. See TOS for details.