ABSTRACT
Since its identification in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region in 1997, the Avian Influenza Virus A/H5N1 has spread to other parts of the world, infecting domesticated and wild birds. The airborne virus is transmissible between birds and occasionally from birds to people, but it has not yet been found to transmit between people. Among infected humans, the respiratory illness caused by the virus proved to have a high fatality rate (approximately 60 per cent). The American National Institute of Health directed pathogenic research to monitor natural mutations and prepare emergency measures in case of an outbreak. In early 2012, it was revealed that the genetic modifications of the virus had produced a variety that transmits between mammals without the loss of its pathogenic characteristics. The virus may — or may not — evolve naturally into a genetically mutated variety with such features. The news caused widespread concern. The publication of the research details was considered a security risk as such details might be used to develop a biological weapon. At the same time, the presence of the genetically modified virus was a safety risk, as its release into the environment would pose a public health threat. The research was criticised and its potential benefits challenged, casting doubts on the proper balancing of the benefits and risks involved. Irrespective of the propriety of having the research conducted, this example demonstrates that the development of living modified organisms (LMOs) may be hazardous.
