Scientists have discovered a new way in which avian influenza viruses, or AIVs, are transferred. The oil glands which waterfowl use to stay waterproof naturally attract AIVs from the water. The birds then spread the viruses over their own or others’ bodies by preening. But just what else do we know about this virus?Transmission of the particular AIV, H5N1 influenza, is highest in Asian countries, with the first outbreaks occurring in Korea, Vietnam, Japan, Thailand, and Cambodia. In 2009 there were at least five deaths from the virus in Vietnam, while three more cases were confirmed in Egypt. However, in that case, all three infected patients recovered.As recently as 2006, transmission between humans was thought to be very rare, with estimates at between two and six. However, isolated cases have been found in different locations. Other cases have been found in house cats and pigs in various Asian countries. While the virus can be hard to catch initially, it quickly spreads by cell-to-cell contact. With a fatality rate of over 60, it is important to know the virus’s weaknesses and how scientists are working to stop its spread.The virus is highly vulnerable to heat, which is why it almost always exists in northern areas. The virus is also vulnerable to low levels of chlorine, disinfectants, and acids. To prevent the spread between birds, farmers have had to change several traditional practices. The contact between livestock and wild birds has been diminished, as has the purchase of live fowl and wet markets.As for the recent research, it could be used to develop new sampling methods and to determine the component which allows the transmission across all waterfowl species.