Deep defence
the dreaded avian flu has affected millions of birds, but fortunately the h5n1 virus responsible does not easily infect humans. So far, the virus has infected only about 200 people worldwide. Now, two independent studies published in Nature (Vol 440, No 7083, March 23, 2006) and Science (published online, March 23, 2006) throw light on why the feared human-to-human spread of the virus has not occurred.
They suggest the answer lies in the distribution of the different receptors or binding molecules in the human respiratory tract that are preferred by avian and human flu viruses. The h5n1 virus prefers receptors common in the lower respiratory tract
Related Content
- Forfeiting our commons: a case for protecting and conserving Challakere’s Amrit Mahal Kavals as livelihoods-supporting, biodiversity-rich and ecologically-sensitive grassland ecosystems
- Death toll from Philippine floods rises to 45
- Ministers leave in face of flood flak - Hooghly recce ends in 15 minutes
- BRT cave-in worries govt
- Road caves in near BRT corridor
- UNFCCC meet fails to secure emission commitments