The bird flu virus 'is capable of living and reproducing itself in many different forms, and this is why scientists are certain that it will be aggressive.'

According to the scientist, "so far there have been no cases of the virus being transmitted from person to person. However, we already know that it can be transmitted from birds to pigs."

Could Kill Tens of Millions

"According to research conducted by Russian scientists, in the very near future bird flu will start to be transmitted from human to human -- and, in this case, a pandemic will occur," Petrov stressed.

He said that according to initial predictions, a bird flu pandemic may begin as early as this year or next near.

"The whole world must be on alert," the scientist said, adding that "all services must prepare for this already very real threat.

"The danger is really very great," the scientist continued. "This virus is capable of living and reproducing itself in many different forms and this is why scientists are certain that it will be aggressive."

According to his information, a pandemic could kill tens of millions of people worldwide.

Vaccine Development Underway

At present, Petrov said, it is important to eradicate the source of infection in time and prevent the virus from spreading further. If people become infected with bird flu they must be immediately isolated and the local area quarantined.

ITAR-TASS reported Petrov as saying that a vaccine against bird flu may be ready by next year, and Russian research in this area is on a par with that in Europe and the USA.

"A real competitive battle will begin soon, and Russia's chances of winning are not bad," he said, adding that "however, under the circumstances the most important thing is to create a vaccine as soon as possible and not compete among ourselves."