The coming pandemic

Following the outbreak of bird flu in England, we bring back a powerful investigation into the dangers posed by avian flu. What would happen if the virus mutated and can anything be done to prepare?

"Ordinary life as we know it will cease, probably for about six months," states Australian Health Minister Tony Abbott, predicting what would happen if the virus struck. An unprepared health system would collapse under the strain. Major cities would close down as people stayed home to avoid contact. There would be a predicted collapse in world trade and travel.