How to make avian flu a biological weapon?

The publication of an article about avian flu was postponed due to the threat of terrorismCopper news

The publication of a scientific article about the causative agent of the so-called avian flu was postponed due to concerns related to bioterrorism. According to New Scientist (Bioterror fears could block crucial flu research), the content of the work will be evaluated by experts of the National Scientific Advisory Board for Biosecurity of the USA (National Science Advisory Board for Biosecurity).

The article describes a study conducted by a group of specialists led by Ron Fouchier from Erasmus University in Rotterdam, the Netherlands. The scientists presented the results of their work at the international flu conference held in Malta in September 2011.

The researchers introduced two mutations into the genome of the H5N1 influenza virus, which causes infection mainly in birds. Thanks to genetic changes, the causative agent of avian influenza has become more dangerous for mammals. Having infected ferrets with such a virus, scientists observed its further transformations.

As a result, five mutations were identified that accidentally occurred in various viruses under conditions that mimic natural ones. According to the authors of the work, these mutations make the pathogen of avian influenza extremely dangerous for humans.

The common H5N1 virus kills up to 60 percent of infected individuals. However, a person can become infected with it only through direct contact with the biological fluids of sick birds. The mutated pathogen retained a high lethality and at the same time spread rapidly among experimental mammals.

The article of the Faucheera group was submitted for publication in the journal Science. The editorial board of the publication submitted it to the American Biosafety Council. The expert body should assess whether the materials of the article can be used to create a biological threat.

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22.11.2011