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In letters to the journals Science and Nature (1, 2), 22 virologists notified the research community of their interest in expanding research to develop strains of the already deadly H7N9 Asian influenza virus that would be transmissible via aerosols among

In letters to the journals Science and Nature (1, 2), 22 virologists notified the research community of their interest in expanding research to develop strains of the already deadly H7N9 Asian influenza virus that would be transmissible via aerosols among mammals, thus creating potential pandemic pathogens. PPPs are defined as pathogens that are potentially highly contagious, potentially highly deadly, and not currently present in the human population. Mammalian contagious avian flu, the 1918 pandemic flu, and SARS are examples. The letter writers cite their scientific reasons for the need for such research, much the same reasons as given by those working on similar projects for the H5N1 avian flu virus (3, 4). This new proposed research signals wider interest in making dangerous influenza viruses (5, 6) contagious in mammals via respiratory aerosols. At present, there are no international regulations or guidelines in place to decide whether such a research project should proceed.

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    Title
    • The Consequences of a Lab Escape of a Potential Pandemic Pathogen
    Date Created
    2014-08-11
    Resource Type
  • Text
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    Identifier
    • Digital object identifier: 10.3389/fpubh.2014.00116
    • Identifier Type
      International standard serial number
      Identifier Value
      2296-2565
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    • View the article as published at http://journal.frontiersin.org/article/10.3389/fpubh.2014.00116/full

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    This is a suggested citation. Consult the appropriate style guide for specific citation guidelines.

    Klotz, L. C., & Sylvester, E. J. (2014). The Consequences of a Lab Escape of a Potential Pandemic Pathogen. Frontiers in Public Health, 2. doi:10.3389/fpubh.2014.00116

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