Blog 3: Article

           "Should You Be Chicken About the New Chicken Flu?"   

                   -The Times

           In Time’s article, “Should You Be Chicken About the New Chicken Flu?”  , Alice Park informs and discuses the new findings of a previously discovered disease, H7N9.  H7N9, an influenza virus –  a severe and more deadly type of the flu – is commonly found in bird species. The reason for the seriousness of this virus comes from the fact that it can be derived from a variety of sources, to which humans may come into close contact with. Previously classified as a pandemic disease, the H7N9 virus is not only the cause of major illnesses and infections; however, it is also become a cause of many mutations (those which scientists have not yet discovered). This virus was not a human threat, until recently scientist discovered, that is it not a species-specific illness, but it has the ability to migrate from animals to humans, and possibly from humans to other humans. Since the H7N9 virus threats have been found commonly around Shanghai,  the University of Hong Kong has been conducting further research to gather more information concerning this critical issue. This article is helpful, because it informs us to be aware of this threatening disease, in order to be able to take the right precautions against it. Ultimately keeping ones self informed and educated about the virus will help maintain their health and the health of others around them regarding the H7N9 flu.