SPECIAL REPORT: BIRD FLU
A deadly invasion from
the skies?
Migrating birds could help spread bird flu
As a wary world waits to see if the notorius bird flu virus will explode in a deadly pandemic, scientists are keeping their eyes on the skies. Why? Migrating birds.
A VIRUS PRIMER
A growing threat: The infection rate in humans is increasing after more than 48 countries across three continents reported initial outbreaks in birds this year.
A repeat of 1918?: In 1918, the Spanish flu epidemic killed more than 40 million people worldwide.
Why this flu is different: In the case of bird flu, vaccine has not yet been manufactured and people have no immunity.
A deadly strain: This virus has the ability to settle deeper into cells in the lungs.
Taking precautions: The government recently released a 227-page report detailing plans for dealing with a pandemic.
A GRIM MARCH WEST
After being contained in Asia for most of 2003 through 2005, the bird flu virus has since made a much faster march westward.
STAFF GRAPHIC
HOW THE VIRUS COULD SPREAD
U.S. scientists are concerned that Alaska could be the pathway for the deadly strain of avian flu to reach the continental United States.
AP PHOTO
INFOAPA worker disposes of dead chickens believed to be infected with the H7 strain of the bird flu virus at a farm on the outskirts of North Tuddenham, England. Concerns are rising that the virus is headed west — to the U.S. — sooner than anticipated.
