Bird flu re-emerges in Hong Kong. Health officials have announced the first case of bird flu in humans seen in the region since 2003, as a 59-year-old woman was admitted to the hospital and is now in serious condition in intensive care. The patient first showed pneumonia-like symptoms after returning from a visit to mainland China, where she had consumed chicken with her family at a market. Her husband also had symptoms of the disease but has thankfully recovered. This new case has prompted officials to issue a serious avian influenza alert throughout Hong Kong.

We send our prayers for the full recovery of the unfortunate woman. May such diseases cease to exist as more and more people turn away from meat consumption in realizing the multifold benefits of humane and wholesome plant-based fare.