Avian Flu Virus in Infected Teen Shows Signs of Becoming Contagious in Humans
The Avian Flu (bird flu) virus that infected a teenager in Canada showed signs of evolving to become contagious between humans. The patient developed a severe illness and was admitted to a British Columbia hospital, where tests confirmed the infection was Avian Flu. Laboratory analysis revealed that the viral sample had three mutations in sections of its genetic code known to help viruses attach to human cells with greater ease.
There is no evidence that this patient has spread the virus to other individuals. British Columbia health authorities investigated whether any contacts of the patient had symptoms and they did not find any other cases. Experts say, however, that the virus’s mutations indicate a growing threat to humans. Avian flu continues to circulate among dairy cows, poultry, wild birds, and it has increasingly jumped from animals to people. Scientists warn that the longer the virus is allowed to spread and mutate, more likely it is to land on a mutation that sparks a new pandemic.
Tainted Ready-to-Eat Meat Sickens 11 People, Kills an Infant
Ready-to-eat meat contaminated with listeria bacteria has sickened 11 Americans across New Jersey and 3 other states. Nine of the patients required hospitalization. The tainted products were produced by Yu-Shang Foods. Listeria infections typically triggers symptoms within 24 hours of ingesting the tainted food. Symptoms can include intestinal distress as well as muscle aches, neck stiffness, “flu-like” symptoms and fatigue. More serious health complications can also occur, especially in higher-individuals such as people who are pregnant, age 65 or older, or those who with a weakened immune system.
