Dozens of viruses detected in Chinese fur farm animals

Scientists fear animals farmed for fur, such as mink (above), could catch unknown viruses circulating in the wild, which could in turn expose humans. - Photo: Reuters

PARIS: Dozens of viruses have been detected mixing in animals at fur farms in China, some of which are new and have the potential to spill over into humans, researchers said on Wednesday (Sept 4).

Since the Covid-19 pandemic, scientists have been warning that farming mammals such as minks for their fur could make it easier for new viruses to cross over from the wild and spark fresh outbreaks.