China reports avian flu in sparrows
October 28th, 2006
Chinese scientists have reported the discovery of bird flu traces in sparrows, raising new question about the virus’ nature and the way it is spread. Sparrows are common, non-migratory birds and live in the Chinese mainland and until now it was believed the only migratory waterfowl can be a carrier and transmitter of the disease. Samples taken from sparrows were tested after an avian influenza outbreak was reported in the province of Henan. Chinese authorities say that there is no reason to believe that these sparrows pose any risk to humans so far.