The experts are watching a new pandemic now


This latest strain of avian flu is one of the most infectious diseases known, and authorities are taking drastic steps to control it. On farms, if one bird falls ill, the entire flock must be culled. In Japan, many prefectures are struggling to find land to bury the 17 million chickens culled. — Reuters

In the last year or so, virologists have been watching a deadly pandemic spread around the world, killing tens of millions. No, it’s not Covid-19. And yes, I’m deadly serious.

It’s not killing humans though (not now anyway) but birds. It’s in fact a panzootic, as an animal pandemic is called. Bird flu, or more precisely, highly pathogenic avian influenza, is to blame. So why are virologists on alert? I’ll explain later, but first, here’s how devastating this disease is for birds.

Subscribe now and receive FREE sooka plan for 1 month.
T&C applies.

Monthly Plan

RM13.90/month

Annual Plan

RM12.33/month

Billed as RM148.00/year

1 month

Free Trial

For new subscribers only


Cancel anytime. No ads. Auto-renewal. Unlimited access to the web and app. Personalised features. Members rewards.
Follow us on our official WhatsApp channel for breaking news alerts and key updates!

Mangai Balasegaram , avian flu , culling ,

   

Next In Living

Egypt takes steps to better protect camels used for tourist rides
The best way to remove red wine stains from anything
People are paddling along the world's waterways picking up trash
Pen lovers celebrate the fine art of writing at the London Pen Show
Do dolphins smile? Yes, according to this study
These senior living facilities are pet-friendly. Here’s why that is important
Top of the world: How Handshake Speakeasy became the world's best bar
Dear Thelma: How can I overcome my fear of trust and build real connections?
Education forges friendships: Could a college education keep loneliness at bay?
Prestige and pain? Getting a PhD can also cause mental health problems

Others Also Read