Avian flu (H5N1): its epidemiology, prevention, and implications for anesthesiology

Avian flu, influenza A subtype H5N1, is an emergent and virulent disease that poses a threat to, Emerging; the health and safety of the world community. Avian flu is I of more than 25 influenza A viruses that reside Disease notification; primarily in birds but also infect humans and other mammals. Avian flu is responsible for the current Disease outbreaks; outbreak in Asia; H5N1 has now displayed probable human-to-human transmission; it could be a Disease transmission; harbinger of a global epidemic. Anesthesiologists are exposed to a risk for infection when they are influenza involved in airway instrurnentation of infected patients. Given tile evidence of emerging resistance to, Avian common antiviral agents used to treat H5N1 influenza virus and limited supply of H5N1 vaccine, prevention is our best protection. The following article will detail the virology and preventive public health practices for H5N1. This knowledge can also be used to define and prevent other yet unidentified infectious threats. (c) 2006 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.