Bird Flu Could Take Its Toll on Business

http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/business/4598150.stm

The World Bank has identified bird flu as a "large shadow" that could harm growth in some parts of the world. The global economy could be badly hit if sick employees were forced to stay at home. A number of key industries, such as tourism, would be directly affected.

The airline sector would also suffer if business and holiday travel fell. Currencies in outbreak hotspots could be hit and quarantines might disrupt global trade. Widespread industrial closures could have a knock-on effect on oil prices.