CNN had one of their "InstaPolls" on their website tonight, here's the results from around midnite:
Created: Tuesday, February 14, 2006, at 21:07:23 EDT
Do you think bird flu will mutate and cause a human pandemic?
Yes, less than 5 years away: 48% 11858 votes
Yes, more than 5 years away: 12% 3012 votes
No: 40% 9748 votes
Total: 24618 votes
This QuickVote is not scientific and reflects the opinions of only those Internet users who have chosen to participate. The results cannot be assumed to represent the opinions of Internet users in general, nor the public as a whole. The QuickVote sponsor is not responsible for content, functionality or the opinions expressed therein.
Looks like it's starting to penetrate at least part of the public consciousness.
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Fortune favors the prepared mind...Pasteur