Sharks Vs. Swine Flu

Fears of a pandemic surfaced earlier this year, after the respiratory virus known as Swine Flu initially affected numerous Mexican citizens. Of course, health officials are simply relating the concern and preparing individuals in case of infection. In fact, studies have suggested that the Swine Flu is actually no more threatening than the common flu. It is, however, inconveniently endangering various species of sharks. I suppose the real question involves weighing the scales.

I, personally, have been affected by the Swine Flu. Of course, I am not referring to disease related encounters, nor apparent side affects. Actually, as a manufacturer of health care products we utilize various components such as bottles, pumps, etc. Distributors of the aforementioned items provide total stocks to associated health care centers attempting to prevent further contamination. Respectively speaking, I understand the concern. Sharks, however, unfortunately do not. Apparently, the vaccine includes an ingredient known as squalene, a substance derived from shark livers. The compound, when exposed on human skin or ingested, typically allows for the immune system to respond more actively. I assume this will decrease risks of exposure and respiratory illness. Though squalene can be extracted from common cooking oils, the measures are contrastingly less significant than that retrieved from the sharks.

Issues that have been recognized regarding such procedures are of course, relative to the complacency of the sharks. Researchers have established the facts; one referencing the mating patterns of associated species. Unfortunately, the reproductive rate of said sharks is extremely low. The gulper shark, targeted as the most squalene efficient, is already listed as "vulnerable" on the International Union for Conservation of Nature's Red List of Threatened Species. It is amazing that the respective organization failed to acquire a simpler title. Europe and Canada have already initiated the procedure; the United States is not likely far behind. On another note, some cosmetic firms have excluded the use of shark squalene; however, comparable substitutes are rare.

National Geographic Explorer (2009). Sharks killed for oil used in swine flu vaccine. Retrieved Dec 30, 2009 from http://news.nationalgeographic.com/news/2009/12/091229-sharks-liver-oil-swine-flu-vaccine.html