News

Public release date: 30-Mar-2011

Contact: Daniela Hernandez
dfh2101@columbia.edu
Columbia University's Mailman School of Public Health

Fatal respiratory infections in endangered gorillas are linked to human contact

New study indicates that ecotourism may be contributing to the decline of mountain gorillas in African preserves

“In a study published online this week in the journal Emerging Infectious Diseases http://www.cdc.gov/eid/content/17/4/711.htm, an international team of researchers report that a virus that causes respiratory disease in humans infected and contributed to the deaths of mountain gorillas in Virunga National Park. This finding raises questions about the safety of ecotourism for endangered species.

“This study illustrates the importance of global commitment to the One Health Initiative," commented CII Director, Dr. W. Ian Lipkin. The One Health Initiative is a movement whose aim is to promote collaboration among environmental, agricultural,

 

Please read more: http://www.eurekalert.org/pub_releases/2011-03/cums-fri033011.php