The World Organization for Animal Health (OIE) issued an unusual warning yesterday (Wednesday) against bird flu that broke out in Asian and European countries, including Israel.
The current virus contains a larger number of mutations and therefore there is a greater than usual fear that one of these mutations will allow the deadly strain to pass to humans as well.
The organization's executive director Monique Alluit said in an interview with Reuters that "this outbreak is more difficult and dangerous than usual.
The concern stems from the large number of varieties.
This flood makes it difficult to keep track of all the mutations. "
Elliott explained that "eventually one of these mutations could mix with a human flu virus and thus suddenly avenge the reality of a new strain of bird flu that is also contagious in humans."
To date, 15 countries have already reported to the OIE an outbreak of influenza in their area from October to December, with at least tens of millions of winged creatures reportedly dying due to the current deadly strain H5N1.
One of the countries hardest hit by the eruption is Italy with 285 different eruptions and the deaths of four million winged animals.
The reason for the growing concern about the H1N5 virus is that it has been shown in the past that it can infect humans.
To date, 850 cases of human infection with the virus have been reported, with a 50% chance of dying.
If a super-mutation of the H1N5 develops that connects to a human flu strain, a huge epidemic could break out.
Despite the concern, Elliott stressed that: "States know how to deal with the outbreak and isolate the sources of the disease so that the chances of infection are low. Also, only close contact can cause infection and with proper treatment the formation of a new fatal mutation can usually be prevented."
Either way, last year Chinese authorities reported a close strain of the H5N6 bird flu that infected humans.
The concern in this case as well was because of an upgrade of the virus.
As of this moment however these concerns have not become certain.
Were we wrong?
Fixed!
If you found an error in the article, we'll be happy for you to share it with us