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Link found between poultry farms and human viral infection. According to a new Chinese
study published in the December issue of the Journal of Virology, a strong link exists
between live animal markets where birds are being slaughtered for meat and human viral
infections. In environmental samples tested from the areas surrounding six live bird markets
that infected patients had visited before they caught the virus, 12 highly pathogenic
H5N1 bird flu viruses were found in four of the markets. Speaking of the growing possibility
for a new and more severe form of infection that could arise, the researchers wrote, "The
sporadic cases of human H5N1 highly pathogenic avian influenza... the H5N1 outbreaks in birds,
and the simultaneous circulation of the 2009 H1N1 pandemic virus raise concern that a deadly
re-assortment virus may emerge." Concentrated animal feeding operations (CAFO), also known
as factory farms, are already known to be potent reservoirs of bacterial infection,
with viral transmission now also being confirmed between animals and humans.
Many thanks, Chinese scientists for these findings that reaffirm the danger of cruel
and unhygienic confined animal conditions. May plant-based fare soon become the norm
for all beings to coexist in humane health
and peace
of mind�