To cause a human pandemic, the H5N1 avian flu virus would have to ________.
A) spread to primates such as chimpanzees
B) develop into a virus with a different host range
C) become capable of human-to-human transmission
D) become much more pathogenic

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The key factor for a virus to cause a human pandemic is its ability to transmit from human to human. While increased pathogenicity, a change in host range, or spreading to primates may affect the virus's impact or research interest, none are as critical for pandemic potential as human-to-human transmission capability.

To Cause a Human Pandemic, the H5N1 Avian Flu Virus