Dear Dr. Dave and Dr. Dee, I've never gotten a flu shot before, but with all the talk about bird flu, should I get one? How serious is the bird flu? Signed, Worried Dear Worried, Unfortunately, current flu shots will not protect against bird flu or avian influenza. There are many different influenza viruses. Bird flu is an H5N1 virus. Flu shots given this year cover other virus strains such as H1N1, H3N2, and B. The World Health Organization (WHO at www.who.int) pointed out the current status of vaccine research and development: "Vaccines are considered the first line of defence for reducing the excess morbidity and mortality that invariably accompany pandemics. For several reasons, no country will have adequate supplies of vaccine at the start of a pandemic and for many months thereafter. Large-scale commercial vaccine production is not expected to commence until about three to six months following the emergence of a pandemic virus." In addition, the Center for Disease Control (CDC at www.cdc.gov) noted: "Research studies to test a vaccine that will protect humans against H5N1 virus began in April 2005, and a series of clinical trials is under way. For more information about the H5N1 vaccine development process, visit the National Institutes of Health website." (February 17, 2007). What is Bird Flu According to the CDC, bird flu occurs naturally in wild birds without making them sick, but infected domesticated birds (chickens, ducks, turkeys) do become sick. If people improperly handle, eat sick birds without cooking properly, or come in contact with contaminated surfaces, then they can become sick. According to WHO, fully cooking poultry and poultry products (i.e. eggs) will kill the bird flu virus and lower the risk of human infection. Also, thoroughly wash hands with soap and water, prevent cross-contamination of poultry with other foods, and clean and disinfect surfaces that have come in contact with poultry. Bird Flu Pandemic There have been reports about the possibility of a bird flu pandemic (worldwide outbreak of disease). But, WHO outlines three conditions that must be met before a pandemic can start: 1) a new influenza subtype emerges; 2) it affects humans, and 3) it spreads easily and sustainably among humans. Two of three conditions have been met since the H5N1 virus is a new virus for humans, and it has infected more than 100 humans, killing over half. Fortunately, there has not been establishment of human-to-human transmission. For the latest information about bird flu and vaccines, see www.cdc.gov and www3.niaid.nih.gov. Updated information on recent outbreaks can be found at www.who.int |
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| Vaccine: Flu Shot Necessary? | |
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| Health Examinations and Preventive Care |