Federal officials warns of epidemic from bird flu virus

Key points
- A Federal health official said that the Earth may be on the brink of a world-wide epidemic from a bird flu virus.
- Julie Gerberding, said that scientists expect the virus which has swept through chickens and other poultry in Asia will change into a flu that can be transmitted among humans.
- The official said the virus may become as deadly and infectious as viruses that killed millions during three influenza epidemics of the 20th century.
A Federal health official said that the Earth may be on the brink of a world-wide epidemic from a bird flu virus.
The head of the Centers for Disease Control, Dr. Julie Gerberding, said that scientists expect the virus which has swept through chickens and other poultry in Asia will change into a flu that can be transmitted among humans.
The official said the virus may become as deadly and infectious as viruses that killed millions during three influenza epidemics of the 20th century.
Written and revised by
Gerald Hurowitz, M.D.
Our doctors write and review articles for accuracy and keep them up to date.
health.am provides general information, not medical advice. Always consult a qualified health professional about your own health.
Explore health topics
More in this topic
Infections, HIV & STIs →
NewsCholera epidemic spreads in west, central Africa: U.N.
A cholera epidemic sweeping through west and Central Africa, one of the biggest in the vast region's history, has infected more than 85,000 people, killing at least 2,466 so far this year, United Nations aid agencies…
12 October 2011
NewsU.S. health officials push flu shots for all
U.S. health officials are looking to capitalize on significant gains in flu vaccination rates with a new campaign emphasizing the need for all Americans over six months of age to get a flu shot. Last season, nearly 131…
23 September 2011
NewsFinding is a feather in the cap for researchers studying birds' big, powerful eyes
Anthrax, septicemia and meningitis are some of the planet's most deadly infections. In part because doctors lack basic insights to prevent and cure diseases caused by so called Gram-positive bacteria. Now, a chemist…
