On 2 February, scientists and public health officials squared off in a panel discussion at the New York Academy of Sciences. Debate raged around the fate of two papers that describe a mutant strain of the avian influenza virus H5N1. The virus is capable of mammal-to-mammal transmission, which has raised concern that it might be transferable to humans. Several panelists sat down with Nature News to discuss their positions.

See also our web special on the H5N1 controversy.

*Update 08/02/12: New York Academy of Sciences has posted full video of the 2 hour debate.