In the final years of World War I, soldiers fighting in the trenches began suffering from an unusual disease that was subsequently labeled Spanish flu. While the first outbreak of this disease was detected in May of 1919, within a few months the number of cases and deaths caused by this virus began to subside. Unfortunately, by the end of the summer of 1918, the virus had returned and its virulence had grown significantly. While the influenza virus had been a part of social development for a number of years, the virility of the influenza virus that developed in 1918 was the worst that had ever been witnessed by physicians and researchers (Appenzeller, 2005).
[...] While general statistics of H5N1 avian flu provide a clear understanding of the emerging threat of this disease, it is also helpful to consider the impact that the H5N1 avian flu has had on the development of the poultry industries in other countries. Appendix Table 2 provides data from select countries in Europe that had reported positive cases of H5N1 avian flu in 2004. Even though a widespread pandemic did not occur in this case, the overall impact on the poultry industry was quite profound. [...]
[...] Although the WHO provides a substantial list of potential solutions that could be implemented as a means to reduce the avian flu pandemic, the specific issues mentioned above appear to be critical, not only for reducing the spread of the disease, but also for protecting the poultry industry from significant economic harm. The reality is that if the poultry industry is to survive a H5N1 avian flu pandemic, steps will be needed to ensure that the entire industry is protected. [...]
[...] The WHO notes that when the virus mutates, it comes from rural farms where workers do not take the necessary precautions to ensure their safety. In order to help prevent the spread of the disease, national efforts to educate and mobilize rural farmers will be needed. Develop root cause pathways to identify the source of human avian flu cases. The WHO notes that when human cases of avian flu are reported, public health officials and professionals in the poultry industry should work cooperatively to find the root cause of the infection. [...]
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