ABSTRACT
Perhaps this chapter can help you make sense of it. We all need a good foundation of knowledge on the subject to understand the threat truly before we attempt to address it. The aim of this chapter is to provide the reader with a basic understanding of the biology of influenza viruses. Technical information about the pathogen, details on the dynamics of transmission, host range, and genetic mechanisms leading to mutation of the virus will be explained. Finally, a glossary of essential terminology is provided at the end of the chapter for reference.
