Scientists pin-point new flu source

The bird flu virus circulating in China has come from both chickens and pigeons, according to the latest findings from local scientists.

The H7N9 virus has affected dozens of people throughout south-east china.

But the study of farms and markets found the virus only in live poultry markets in the city of Shanghai.

Scientists said they examined 970 samples and found evidence of the virus in just 20 cases.

The findings have been reported in the Chinese Science Bulletin.

The researchers write: “We suggest that strong measures, such as continued surveillance of avian and human hosts, control of animal movement, shutdown of live poultry markets, and culling of poultry in affected areas, should be taken during this initial stage of virus prevalence to prevent a possible pandemic.

"Additionally, it is also imperative to evaluate the pathogenicity and transmissibility of these H7N9 viruses, and to develop effective vaccines and antiviral drugs so as to reduce their adverse effects upon human health.”

Shi J Z, Deng G H, Liu P H, et al. Isolation and characterization of H7N9 viruses from live poultry markets—Implication of the source of current H7N9 infection in humans. Chinese Science Bulletin. DOI: 10.1007/s11434-013-5873-4