Many Zootonic Pathogens Are Highly Virulent, Can Result in High

question 36

Multiple Choice

Many zootonic pathogens are highly virulent, can result in high death rates, and can cause world-wide pandemics. One example, the H5N1 avian flu, not only killed millions of domestic poultry, but also caused the deaths of people who came in contact with sick birds. What is the most probable hypothesis or reason as to why the H5N1 flu can be so deadly to people?

• A)This particular pathogen crossed the species barrier and the high virulence can be seen as a side effect of a new pathogen-host association.
• B)The pathogen was quick to infect healthy birds.
• C)The avian flu would have eventually been controlled; we have to be patient because medicine is close to eliminating infectious diseases.
• D)If the H5N1 flu had been half avian and half mammalian, people would have had some immunity to it.
• E)Two of the above statements are correct.

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Definitions:

Electrons

Electrons are negatively charged subatomic particles found in atoms, crucial for chemical bonds, electricity, and magnetism.

Atoms

The smallest units of matter that form chemical elements, consisting of a nucleus surrounded by electrons.

Potassium

A chemical element with the symbol K, atomic number 19, and one of the alkali metals, essential for living organisms.

Electrons

Subatomic particles with a negative electric charge, found in electron shells around an atom's nucleus.