GM viruses could help prevent animal diseases jumping to humans

Vaccinating wildlife with genetically-modified viruses could one day help stop diseases like Ebola and MERS jumping from animals to humans, researchers say.

Sourced through Scoop.it from: www.abc.net.au

In principle, a great idea – BUT, as was pointed out, using live viruses in an effectively uncontrolled manner COULD result in all sort of unforeseen outcomes.

Like making a killer virus that drastically reduces numbers of a given species, like myxomatosis and RHDV did to rabbits [OK, they were supposed to].

Like making a virus that spreads to NON-target animals, and does…what?  Start a zombie plague?  Mutate to virulence, and cause havoc?

The point is, WE DON’T KNOW what may happen – and in circumstances like that, it may be safer to leave well alone!

See on Scoop.itVirology News

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