Continuing the exploration of the potential of the zombie virus, Fringe Fiction has discussed previously that rabies is the most probable form to mutate into the zombie virus, given its biochemical structure, method of transmission, symptoms and vectors.  Since a zombie’s bite on human flesh, if the virus doesn’t change the individual, the bacteria from the saliva can assist in viral transmission.

Bacteria

Bacteria are microorganisms that are all around us.  Most are generally harmless but some can pose potential health risks, even fatal health risks.

Bacterial/Zombie Viral Transmission Through Skin Breaks and Lesions

This is similar to the spread of rabies from a dog to a human when the dog bites the human’s flesh, thus releasing the rabies virus through the saliva and the bacteria within it.  Given enough time, gangrene can occur, but with an even somewhat potent zombie virus, gangrene will be the least of the victim’s concerns.

Exchange of Body Fluids (Blood and Saliva)

Most likely transmission method particularly the first outbreak whether from dogs to humans or humans to humans.  It will probably be from a bite but not withstanding, from a human already infested with the bacteria or virus, it can be passed via accidental or intentional intravenous transmission.

With a bite, the skin is pierced with the host’s teeth, whether canine, human or other vector.  With that, the skin and the lesion are exposed to bacteria and viruses.  The zombie virus would first enter the human victim’s bloodstream and begin its journey of transforming the victim into another host zombie.

The question remains whether the zombie virus would allow white blood cells and platelets to seal the initial wound or wounds.  What benefits would the virus for doing so?  It would allow more competition from other viruses and bacteria.  The leading question to that would be whether the competing viruses and bacteria would be beneficial to the zombie virus in its transmission and growth.

Competition or Co-Habitation: Other Bacteria and Viruses

With the competition route, the zombie virus would permit the white blood cells and platelets to seal the wound.  That would minimize competition on the zombie virus part.  It would only encounter problems with the white blood cells and the bacteria in the intestinal tract.  In this situation, as the sole virus, it would have a monopoly on the human host.

With the co-habitation route, maybe the zombie virus would allow synergistic competitors into the fray.  The other competitors wouldn’t be quite as lethal but more of a distraction.  Perhaps to either attack the incoming white blood cells and platelets while the virus does its work on the human host.  Fringe Fiction imagines that bacteria would join in as well.  Again, not quite as lethal as the zombie virus but doing their part.

Conclusion

The Potential Evolution of the Zombie Virus concludes in its sociological, economical and political impacts throughout the world.