January 20, 2012

expert reaction to joint letter in Nature and Science agreeing to a 60-day pause on H5N1 research

A letter from leading scientists agreeing to a 60-day pause in controversial flu virus research was published in Nature and Science.

Professor Wendy Barclay, Chair in Influenza Virology, Imperial College London, said:

“There are no other groups anywhere around the world who understand the implications of research into transmissible H5N1 viruses as intensely as the influenza research community. This joint letter demonstrates that the group of scientists who conduct research in this area are an interactive body who want to show the public how seriously they take their research. The idea of the 60 day pause is to allow time for everyone concerned, media, ethicists and scientists alike, to be involved in the debate that has been sparked by the finding that certain mutations can render viruses with H5 HA transmissible. It is imperative that we do not react on impulse but weigh up the benefits this type of research can bring and review again the appropriate ways to control dangerous pathogens that we work with in the closed laboratory.”

Professor Peter Openshaw, Director of the Centre for Respiratory Infection at Imperial College London, said:

“It’s a responsible decision to suspend work on these viruses while agreement is being reached. It’s vital that an appropriate international panel is convened rapidly which is well-informed, respected and independent. I hope that these issues can be resolved and that this vital work will continue under appropriate conditions and not be driven underground.”