Despite being rarely transmitted to humans, the H5N1 avian influenza poses a severe risk due to its potential evolution. Recent research indicates minor mutations could facilitate human-to-human transmission. Experts at the Pandemic Preparedness Symposium expressed concern that political challenges may hinder rapid responses to such threats. Virologist Angela Rasmussen emphasized the need for smooth communication between government and private sectors to stave off potential outbreaks and ensure timely development of vaccines and containment strategies against H5N1 should it mutate.
How are we going to find out if H5N1 has acquired the ability to be efficiently transmitted? How are we going to find that primary cluster of human cases and be able to contain it before it spreads out?
This is not the moment for any sort of friction in the flow of information between government agencies and the private sector, which will need to collaborate quickly.
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