Newly released data collected by Chinese scientists raises major questions about what they knew about the virus’ true origins.
“I think you will not get better evidence for a zoonotic origin than this, quite frankly,” says Professor Edward Holmes, a viral evolution expert based at the University of Sydney and author of a report on the new data.
That led Chinese authorities to close and sanitise the market, but not before they collected DNA samples. None of the animal samples they collected tested positive for COVID-19.. That still seemed to leave a key gap: where were the infected animals? The samples didn’t just contain genetic code from the virus, but also from humans and animals. Lots of animals. The Chinese had claimed no animals were being sold at the market, but Holmes says the genetic data made it look like “a bloody zoo”.It also showed the presence of raccoon dogs, hedgehogs, porcupines and bamboo rats in that very area.The genetic data cannot prove that the animals were infected, only that they were in the same spot as the virus.
United Kingdom Latest News, United Kingdom Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Ferdinand Montoya’s secret ingredient: bagoongThis Filipino fermented shrimp paste provides a strong hit of umami
Read more »
More copper deals on the way as Chinese miner mulls NSW exitA decade after it acquired Rio Tinto’s Northparkes mine, a Chinese miner is understood to be about to test market interest.
Read more »
Former 'Top Gun' pilot accused of training Chinese may have been 'lured to Australia'A former US pilot could have been "lured" back to Australia with a job offer before his arrest and a subsequent extradition bid by the US government.
Read more »
Armed men kill nine Chinese nationals in Central African RepublicRebel alliance Coalition of Patriots for Change denies responsibility after mayor accuses them of attack
Read more »
Xi Jinping says China ready to ‘stand guard over world order’ on Moscow visitChinese leader expected to position himself as peacemaker as Vladimir Putin welcomes his ‘good old friend’
Read more »
Analysis: Xi Jinping’s upcoming Russia visit with President PutinAssociate Professor at the ANU Strategic and Defence Studies Centre Matthew Sussex has analysed and discussed Chinese President Xi Jinping’s upcoming visit with President Vladimir Putin in Russia and what result may be seen from their meeting. “I think Xi is going for two reasons,” he told Sky News Australia. “One – to demonstrate that China is providing rhetorical support for Russia, if not material support. “The other part is, of course, the Chinese peace plan, the 12-point peace plan which is very long on aspiration but pretty short on specific details.”
Read more »