Comments on: New flu viruses emerge in tropical Asia before going on one-way world tour

By: greg zurbay

greg zurbay — Sun, 22 Feb 2009 20:48:48 +0000

Considering how severe a pandemic would affect the USA would it be reasonable to build a vaccine production facility using fermentation that would be large enough to produce enough vaccine in a single cycle? In the case of the inevitable pandemic drug industry experts would be paid to run the facility, thus giving the country the quickest response to a biologic threat, natural or man made. This would enhance national security, and go a long way to preserving social stability in meeting this likely threat.

By: caynazzo

caynazzo — Fri, 18 Apr 2008 15:57:56 +0000

Cancer or kittens. Though I’m biased, since I study leukemia.

By: Ed Yong

Ed Yong — Fri, 18 Apr 2008 15:17:53 +0000

Thanks caynazzo. I actually said that influenza A is the greatest threat to human health, among the different types of flu virus. Although, it is interesting to work out what the number one overall greatest threat to human health would be. Smoking? Infectious diseases? Other humans? Chuck Norris?

By: caynazzo

caynazzo — Fri, 18 Apr 2008 15:01:17 +0000

Is influenza really the greatest threat to human health? Is that an historical statement or one based on present casualties?
Either way, you’ve reported on the topic admirably.

By: Ed Yong

Ed Yong — Fri, 18 Apr 2008 03:48:34 +0000

Thanks mate! Much obliged.

By: chezjake

chezjake — Wed, 16 Apr 2008 19:51:22 +0000

An excellent post, Ed. It’s a real pleasure to read your clear, concise writing.