Avian flu introduction by illegal bird imports

[Capsid]

I find it a little worrying that some people appear to have no regard or understanding for the potential health consequences of illegally importing animals (birds in this example ).

How serious an issue could this be?

Although the risk of transmission from the animals to humans is limited, it cannot be excluded since the birds travelled in the passenger cabin in hand luggage.

In their hand luggage?!

This virus does kill people.

I am appalled that people are so irresponsible, but I guess there is a strong financial incentive. Apparently the birds were in poor health as they were stuffed in to pipes and may not even have survived had they not been destroyed anyway.

 

[neutrino_cannon]

In the security minded (or mouthed, depending on your particular view and level of cynacism) US, I find this to be evidence for renewed funding and respect for customs.

 

[Soapy Sam]

I heard homing pigeons in the USA are related to Al Quaeda.
And they all have psittacosis, rooster virus,BSE and Lurgii.

You can get a pigeon hunting licence at your local town hall.

 

[Benguin]

I heard homing pigeons in the USA are related to Al Quaeda.
And they all have ... BSE ...

That's easy, does it moo or coo?

Sorry, couldn't resist it.