title: Science should be in the public domain.
abstract: Variants of avian influenza H5N1 virus that are transmitted by the airborne route among ferrets have been identified. The National Science Advisory Board for Biosecurity has advised against publication of the details of the methods used to obtain these viruses and the amino acid changes that lead to transmission in ferrets. This decision is not based on sound scientific principles and risks setting a precedent that will make it easier to put in place highly restrictive regulations on scientific research and publication.
authors.affiliation: Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons, New York, New York, USA.
authors.forename: Vincent R
authors.initials: VR
authors.lastname: Racaniello
mesh_terms: D000818:Animals; D035843:Biomedical Research; D023482:Bioterrorism / Q000517:prevention & control*; D005289:Ferrets; D006801:Humans; D053124:Influenza A Virus, H5N1 Subtype / Q000235:genetics* / Q000472:pathogenicity*; D009976:Orthomyxoviridae Infections / Q000635:transmission* / Q000821:virology*; D017150:Public Sector; D011643:Publishing / Q000331:legislation & jurisprudence / Q000639:trends; D014481:United States