FATHER CAUGHT BIRD FLU FROM SON

Tests on a father diagnosed with bird flu in China show he probably caught the disease from his dying son.

Scientists are concerned that if the virus evolves to pass easily from human to human millions could be at risk.

A genetic analysis of the Chinese case published in The Lancet found no evidence to suggest the virus had gained that ability.

But an expert has warned that failure to control outbreaks of disease in poultry is fuelling the risk to humans.

English article BBC

WALES BADGER CULL

A "targeted cull" of badgers has been announced as part of a plan in Wales to eradicate tuberculosis in cattle.

The Welsh Assembly Government's plan includes a one-off test of all cattle and a review of the compensation system, rural affairs minister Elin Jones announced.

Wales' chief veterinary officer said bovine TB was out of control and the current policy was not working.

In a briefing on Tuesday, Christianne Glossop said incidents had increased dramatically over the last decade.


Compensation payments to farmers have risen from £1.3m in 1999-2000 to £15.2m in 2007-2008.

'Protected species'
Farmers have long blamed badgers for spreading bovine TB but animal groups say evidence does not support this.