Understanding Zoonosis: The Study of Transmissible Diseases and Infections Sarah Ahmed, MD., PhD., George Tarabelsi, MD., Zara Khan, MD., Shubhankar Joshi, MD., PhD., Francesca Corsini, MD., PhD., Megi Resulaj, MD., PhD. College of Science and Mathematics, University of Massachusetts Boston H5N1 (Avian Influenza) H1N1 Virus (Swine Flu) Rationale References Ebola Future Discussion Special Acknowledgments Introduction -4 ways in which one can be infected by zoonotic disease: exposure to the virus, infection by the virus, transmission of the virus to members of the population, and the adaptations the virus makes to infect others more effectively -While we have advanced in understanding the affects of the virus, there are certain aspects that we must continue to explore: the study of when and where the virus forms, what it is that causes the spread of the virus, and how we can limit the virus' natural reservoir, which would in turn, limit the spread of the virus. -The development of a zoonotic disease occurs through the exchange between humans and animals, and as a first defense against the development of these diseases the exchange of bodily fluids between humans and animals must be addressed. Not only to be sure that the exchanges are humane, but also done cleanly in order to deter any more diseases from developing. Conclusion WHAT IS IT? - It is a highly pathogenic avian bird flu virus - Caused outbreaks in parts of Asia and the Middle East over domestic poultry - First detected in China in 1996 from a goose. - There have been about 650 human cases reported from 15 different countries since Mortality rate is about 60% of those infected with the virus. SYMPTOMS & COMPLICATIONS OF THOSE INFECTED WITH H5N1: Fever and cough Acute respiratory distress Abdominal pain Diarrhea Pneumonia Respiratory failure Altered mental state Seizures Failure of multiple organs Death TREATMENT AND VACCINATION: - Two antiviral medications previously licensed by the FDA have shown resistance to HPAI H5N1 - It has been recommended to use either oseltamivir (preferred) or zanamivir. ZOONOTIC SPREAD OF AVIAN INFLUENZA: There are three different barriers that a virus must overcome in order to spread from one species to another. 1. Cross-species host-host interaction The species from which the virus originated and the species that received the virus would have to interact first. 2. Virus-host interactions The ability of the virus to infect the nest host species 3. Intraspecies host-host interactions Transferring the virus between infected and non-infected hosts within the species jakarta0.htm Link: "H1N1 (originally Referred to as Swine Flu)." H1N1 (Swine Flu). U.S. Department of Health & Human Services, n.d. Web. What is it? A respiratory illness found in pigs An Orthomyxovirus that contains: Haemagglutinin – glycoprotein causing red blood cells to clump together and then binding the virus to the red blood cell Neuraminidase – enzymes that assist in transferring the virus particles through the infected cell The virus appeared to be a new strain of H1N1 which resulted to be a triple re-assortment of bird, swine, and human flu How is it spread? Through airborne droplets (coughing or sneezing) of an infected animal Can be transmitted through hand- eye, nose, or mouth contact Prevention and Treatment: No known treatment Preventative care includes flu vaccination and proper personal protective equipment We chose to investigate zoonosis because of the recent attention it has received in the news and media, specifically in cases of Ebola, H5N1, and H1N1. We wish to explore the biological mechanisms which allow these viruses to expand their host range. In addition, some of our examples also illustrate the wide range of consequences these viruses can exhibit, from mild to detrimental. -Do animals show the same symptoms for the disease as humans? -What is the body’s initial response to the diseased cell? Do the cells go undetected? -What are some ways researchers are trying to find a cure for these diseases?