In 1918, an influenza pandemic that originated with avian flu killed 50 million people.

Researchers isolated samples of that virus from bodies of infected people preserved in Alaskan

permafrost since 1918. From the samples, they sequenced the viral genome, then reconstructed

the virus. The reconstructed virus is 39,000 times more infectious than modern influenza strains,

and 100 percent lethal in mice. Understanding how this virus works can help us defend ourselves

against other strains that may arise. For example, discovering what makes it so infectious and

deadly would help us design more effective vaccines. Critics of the research are concerned: If

the virus escapes the containment facilities (even though it has not done so yet), it might cause

another pandemic. Worse, the published DNA sequence and methods to make the virus could be

used for criminal purposes. Do you think this research makes us more or less safe?​