what H5N1 in virus type of bird flu signify?!


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A highly pathogenic avian influenza virus was discovered in Hong Kong in 1997 , causing the goverment to slaughter 1.5 million area poultry to prevent an epidemic,and given the name H5N1.( the Hong Kong flu became a pandemic in 1957 killing more than 2 million people and this was an avian flu of only 3 virulent forms of the virus ). 2003 finds it surfacing in Seoul, S.Korean chickens. 2004 finds people being infected by birds in Thailand and Vietnam, killing dozens. 2005 much happens : Dr Webster at ST. Jude's Childrens Hospital devotes lab and career to finding a vaccine , U.S. scientists report that it (virus)shares features of the "Spanish Flu" of 1918, the pandemic that caused 40 million to die, and Bush requests $7.1 billion for a pandemic flu plan as H5N1 surfaces in China, killing at least 3 people(though hundreds have been reported as dying). When this virus develops a mammalian cell and a virus sex its spread is unthinkable.

Other Answers:
H means hemagglutinin and N means neuraminidase proteins
It is a strain(type) of influenza (flu)virus prevelant in birds & less commonly in pigs.

It is in the news recently because of increased deaths among birds & minimal degree of transmission to humans with deaths reported.The fear is it may mutate(change shape) to be able to transmit easily among humans, by simple acts of coughing,etc.

If it does & is virulent enough it can kill millions of humans rapidly just like the spanish flu( killed approx. 50 million people worldwide), Hongkong flu, etc.

The drug Tamiflu is available but certain parts of world have developed resistance to it. A vaccine to protect humans is still not available.So the problem is multifold.

There are some tests available. Check with your local laboratory.They are:

1.Viral culture for influenza A/H5

2.RT-PCR for influenza A/H5

3.IFA test using A/H5 monoclonal antibodies.

4.Influenza A/H5 specific antibody titer.( a 4 fold increase has to be demonstrated tyo label as a bird flu)

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