Bird Flu, Western European Edition

This is one of those things you knew would happen: the H5N1 strain of bird flu has made it to France, and health officials are at pains to make it clear that this is bad news for birds, but not necessarily human beings.  The disease has still not mutated into a form that much affects people–though you’ll find mention of the possibility in the eighth or ninth paragraph of every newspaper story you read. 

One Australian newspaper is describing the atmosphere in London as "panic," which sounds a bit strong compared to other versions.  Here’s what the DAILY MAIL of London reports:

"Britain is on a high alert over the possible spread of avian flu to the UK, as tests continued on a number of birds found dead in recent days.

"Following the confirmation that a duck which died of bird flu in France was infected with the lethal H5N1 strain of the virus, the Government said it was "more likely" the disease would reach Britain.

"A Defra spokesman [the British Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs] said nine swans had been sent for tests over the weekend after members of the public called the helpline.

"Two each were from Bury St Edmonds, Winchester and Preston, while individual birds were found in Shrewsbury, Thirsk and Hertfordshire.

"’All the tests have so far been negative but testing continues,’ he added."

(The rest of the story is HERE, though your view may be blocked by a pesky popup ad that warns, "Scottist Widows: preparation is everything.")

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Casual Friday, Doctor?

A friend in our Washington bureau spotted this:

"LONDON, Feb 20 (Reuters) – Doctors should stop wearing ties and traditional white coats to work because they might be responsible for spreading deadly hospital superbugs, according to a report on Monday.

"The British Medical Association (BMA), which represents three-quarters of the country’s doctors, said ties performed no beneficial function in treating patients and, as they were rarely washed, were a potential bug haven.

"Washing hands properly was the most important action medical staff could take to help stop the spread of the so-called superbugs.

"However other steps, such as doctors abandoning ties and other "functionless" clothing, could also help minimise the risk, said Peter Maguire, deputy chairman of the BMA’s board of science."