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2003/5/27 (TUE)
Palm Civets Linked to SARS
by The Associated Press Posted on May 23, 2003 Common Palm Civet The World Health Organization has traced the Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS) virus to the civet cat and two other small mammals in China, and researchers are investigating a possible link to the outbreak of the virus in humans, an official said on Friday.
Researchers from the University of Hong Kong examined 25 animals representing eight species in a live animal market in southern China and found the SARS virus in all six palm civets they sampled, as well as in a badger and a raccoon dog.
Klaus Stohr, chief SARS virologist at the World Health Organization, said on Friday it was impossible to tell from the study whether any of the animals spread the virus to humans or whether they caught the virus from people.
Common Palm Civet
Civet cats are nocturnal animals related to the mongoose, with long tails and catlike bodies. They resemble small raccoons or weasels.
The researchers said it was possible that animals got SARS from human feces used in fertilizer, and the illness did not originate with them. They recommended such game animals should be raised, slaughtered and sold under careful monitoring. Researchers have previously said SARS came from animals, but not been sure what kind.
Copyright 2003 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.
UP : 15:51:43
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