For the birds... for now

In Malta we have bird flu to our north, east and south (Europe, Asia, Africa), but so far fortunately not in our islands.

The rapid spread of the flu virus H5N1 has been phenomenal but it remains restricted to birds.

True, one has to mention that 225 persons have been infected (sadly 128 died) but statistically these figures are insignificant, considering that one quarter of the total world's population is theoretically exposed and at risk.

Going through the pros and cons one notes that the flu virus has eight separated segments in the genetic make-up and has a great capability to swap and change over. Its genetic code can be reassembled to produce a new type of virus to which mankind has no immunity (antigenic shift). This may kick-start a pandemic.

The last epidemic was in 1968, and as there occur three epidemics every 100 years, another epidemic/pandemic is ominously overdue.

On the brighter side we now have more universal surveillance, better laboratory facilities and global cooperation. Antiviral (Tamiflu) is being manufactured by more than one pharmaceutical firm.

Vaccine manufactures are trying new techniques and changing over production of vaccines from eggs to cell cultures, speeding up the process. Avant-garde research scientists are devising bio-engineered novel vaccine preparations. Please note that to cover the world's population in the face of a pandemic would require an astronomical number of doses.

It was most reassuring to read in the columns of The Times the report by Cynthia Busuttil (June 9) about the high degree of alertness and preparedness for the protection of our people.

Meanwhile, by the grace of God, bird flu is strictly for birds, and this has given us time to get our homework right.

Be prepared. There is always one more thing to do!