JEDDAH, 7 February 2007 — Every time we read or hear in the news about the avian (bird) flu killing a few people in China, Thailand, Indonesia, or Egypt we panic. What do we do? Is there a cure or vaccine? While the media scare has put us in such a state of hysteria, experts assert that contamination of the bird flu virus only occurs through direct contact with infected birds or handling of their flesh. However, once thoroughly cooked, chicken or other birds should not contaminate the eater. Eggs should not be a cause for alarm either as an infected fowl cannot lay a normal egg, but a soft-shelled egg with a runny yolk.

The real fear arises when the virus starts mutating into a strain that becomes communicable from human to human. The known antiviral drug Tamiflu is currently facing resistance from the avian flu virus strain H5N21. So shall we remain impotent waiting for an adequate cure or vaccine?

No, because natural medicine has effective ways to protect against the virus, regardless of the strain. According to Marcus Laux, professor and physician at the National College of Naturopathic Medicine in Portland, Oregon, an appropriate method to fight bird flu is through promoting a healthy immune system to protect against the infection or decrease its symptoms. Some nutrient supplements can give the desired results. We shall discuss some of these recommended immune-enhancing supplements.

Selenium, an immune-boosting mineral, is an important protector against the bird flu virus. Apparently selenium-deficiency in hot spots has caused the virus to mutate to aggressive strains that could infect humans. 200 mcg of selenium is required for prevention and not more than 400 mcg to treat an active infection.

N-acetylcysteine (NAC), in studies, was found to be an effective antioxidant against the flu by considerably reducing its symptoms. Dr. Silvio de Flora of Genoa recommends 600mg of NAC twice daily during the cold season with an increase of the dose to 3,000 — 4,000 mg for an ongoing infection.

Due to lysine’s ability to inhibit the replication of viruses, this essential amino acid was found by Chinese researchers to prevent infections like hepatitis B and herpes simplex infections. By enhancing immunity and stopping the proliferation of a virus, lysine becomes effective on active bird flu viruses at the doses of 500 to 2,000 mg as recommended by Laux.

During the anthrax scare, scientists found wild oregano, Oreganum vulgare, essential oil potent against the lethal infection, while dramatically decreasing symptoms. It should also work similarly against the avian flu virus.

From personal experience, I found a few drops of thyme, Thymus vulgaris, essential oil very effective against cold and flu viruses by reducing symptoms and shortening recovery periods.

Last but not least, vitamin C is a necessity during a viral infection and the cold season for its immune-boosting properties (Arab News, The C-connection, September 14th, 2006).

Once again as a reminder, we should have a balanced nutrition as studies show that deficiencies, selenium in particular, can trigger the avian flu virus to mutate, becoming humanly transmittable. The benefits of a strong immune system also extend protection against countless diseases including the common cold and flu.

Protection Tips:

• Always wear latex gloves when handling raw fowl. Avoid direct contact with raw flesh

• Keep a special cutting board (preferably glass) for preparing fowl for cooking

• Certain condiments and spices (garlic, onions, lemon, ginger, cayenne, black pepper) are effective on bacteria and germs

• Avoid birds raised un-hygienically in shacks and cages.