Moratorium of 60 days on research on deadly avian influenza H5N1

A group of 39 researchers signed a statement announcing a moratorium of 60 days on any research involving highly pathogenic avian influenza H5N1 viruses leading to the generation of viruses that are more transmissible in mammals. In addition, no experiments with live H5N1 or H5 HA reassortant viruses already shown to be transmissible in ferrets will be conducted during this time. [1]
The moratorium will allow time to clearly explain the benefits of this important research and the measures taken to minimize involved possible risks. [2]

The controversial research is being leaded by Ron Fouchier at Erasmus MC in Rotterdam, and Yoshihiro Kawaoka of the University of Wisconsin. Both scientist wanted to publish their findings on how to make the deadly H5N1 avian influenza virus more transmissible between mammals, a blueprint to set off a flu pandemic. Increasing the contagiousness of an lethal virus and making their data public are two bad ideas, said Dr. Thomas Inglesby, a bioterrorism expert. Many experts fear that the study may have the potential to help bioterrorists. Read more [3]

[1] Flu Researcher Ron Fouchier: 'It's a Pity That It Has to Come to This'. Science Insider. 20 Jan 2012.
http://news.sciencemag.org/scienceinsider/2012/01/flu-researcher-ron-fouchier-its.html

[2] Fouchier RAM et al.2012: Pause on Avian Flu Transmission. Letter  Research Science Express
http://www.sciencemag.org/site/feature/data/hottopics/biosecurity/Fouchier.Express.pdf

[3] H5N1 US/Dutch study: You can make war, but don't do it under the name of science. Ourfood-news.com. 06 Jan 2012
http://ourfood-news.com/2012/01/06