New Bird Flu Mutations in Egypt: Resistant to Tamiflu

We knew it was coming, and here it is.

Egyptian bird flu mutations suggest antiviral resistance

Mutations in the bird flu virus have been found in two people in Egypt, in a form that might be resistant to the medication most commonly used to treat the deadly disease, according to laboratory tests approved by WHO.

The mutations in the H5N1 virus strain were not drastic enough to make the virus infectious enough to spark a pandemic, said officials with the World Health Organisation.

But more such mutations could ultimately prompt scientists to rethink current treatment strategies.

Meanwhile, more human infections are appearing in Egypt.

Egyptian woman tests positive for bird flu-WHO

A 27-year-old Egyptian woman has tested positive for the deadly H5N1 bird flu virus, the 19th human case in the most populous Arab country, a World Health Organisation official said on Wednesday.

Most people infected in Egypt had been in contact with poultry kept at home. The outbreak initially caused panic across the country and did extensive damage to the poultry industry.

Three people from one family, including a 15-year-old girl, died of the virus in December, raising fears about the possibility of human-to-human transmission.

Most people think of Asia, specifically Indonesia, as being the H5N1 hotspot where the pandemic will probably originate from - but Egypt bears watching.

Ok , Tami-flu can be used for at least 21 days successfully. Anything less from what I have read is not enough. The usual dose after the big run on it is only for 10 days. Also, if you were to find your self in extreme circumstances, you can actually catch the 'flow' of an infected person and re administer the medicine. It almost runs completely out of the persons kidneys. Sounds gross huh?

I have seen reports that Tamiflu is derived from the Chinese spice "star anise". Star anise is one of the ingredients in Chinese 5 Spice powder. Here is one such discussion:


www.answers.com...


Perhaps the natural form of the active ingredient of Tamiflu will be a more effective defense against variant forms of bird flu. BTW, the cheapest source by far for "star anise" pods is in Indian or other South Asian grocery stores. If you buy it in a Western grocery store, you will end up paying something like 500% more.

Tamiflu was never put forward as a 100% vaccine for H5N1.

On one report I saw on TV one scientist said it was practically useless.

Just dont sleep with, or kiss and cuddle your chickens and you will be safe



[edit on 16/7/07 by Chorlton]

when will it reach h ere?