Scientists identify virus

Scientists in Hong Kong said on Thursday they had identified the virus behind a mystery pneumonia that has killed more than 50 people worldw...

Scientists in Hong Kong said on Thursday they had identified the virus behind a mystery pneumonia that has killed more than 50 people worldwide. The finding, confirmed by the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, will allow doctors to diagnose the disease much faster, reducing the death rate.

The group of microbiologists from the University of Hong Kong identified it as a new strain from the family of corona viruses, which are the second leading cause of colds .

Killer pneumonia licks
Stones’ HK concerts

LOS ANGELES: The lethal pneumonia outbreak in southeast Asia has forced the Rolling Stones to postpone two concerts scheduled for this weekend in Hong Kong, a spokeswoman for the band said. The veteran British rockers, currently on the Asian leg of their Licks world tour, were scheduled to perform at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre on Friday and Saturday. But increasing fears about SARS, prompted the band to change its plans.

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‘‘Increases in the number of cases of SARS in Hong Kong and southern China and continued concern over large gatherings have created apprehension among fans and concern for their safety,’’ a statement said. ‘‘The Stones plan to reschedule the concerts as soon as possible.’’ A spokeswoman said the rest of the tour will proceed. The next scheduled show is in Shanghai on April 1, marking the band’s first ever performance in China. Other first-time shows will follow in Beijing, Bangkok, Bangalore and Mumbai. (Reuters)

“It appears to us the coronavirus is the primary cause of the disease…it is possible of course that other viruses might also infect the same patient and might increase the severity of the disease,” scientist Malik Peirius told a news conference.

Southern China, crowded with humans and livestock and historically the source of many new virus strains, has been identified as the most likely source of the disease.

The Hong Kong team also said they had developed a diagnostic test that would allow doctors to tell within eight hours if anyone was suffering from the disease.

Peirius said the infection was spread through coughing and sneezing, but also by touching droplets from infected people. Keeping hands clean was therefore an important precaution, he said.

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Chances of recovery should be about 90 percent, if the victim was not suffering another dangerous disease, and was treated early. Victims were responding well to a cocktail of anti-viral drugs and steroids, the team added.

SP leader Azam Khan walks out of jail after 23 months, hundreds of supporters welcome him

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Senior Samajwadi Party leader Azam Khan, who is facing multiple cases, walked out of the Sitapur jail today after 23 months. He was scheduled to be released early Tuesday morning, but it was delayed due to impending court proceedings. Hundreds of supporters gathered outside the Sitapur jail, waiting for the SP leader to walk out of prison.

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