According to a recent report, samples collected from the Huanan Seafood Market in Wuhan, China, where the first cases of COVID-19 were identified, contained a mixture of viruses that included the coronavirus and several animals.
The report, which was published by the World Health Organization (WHO) on Tuesday, was the result of a joint investigation carried out by Chinese and international experts. The team spent four weeks in Wuhan earlier this year to study the origins of the pandemic.
The report suggests that the market played a role in the initial spread of the virus, which has now killed more than 2.7 million people worldwide. However, the exact source of the virus remains unclear.
The investigation found evidence that the market was selling live animals, including civet cats, which are known to carry coronaviruses. It also found evidence of the sale of frozen wildlife, including foxes, mink, and rabbits.
The report suggests that the virus may have been introduced to the market by one of these animals, or by a person who was infected with the virus and visited the market. The investigation also found evidence that the virus may have been circulating in the community before it was detected at the market.
The report also noted that while the Huanan Seafood Market was an important site for the early spread of the virus, it was not the only site. The virus was also detected in other markets in Wuhan, as well as in other parts of China.
The report recommends further studies to better understand the origins of the virus, including investigations into the wildlife trade and the role of other potential sources of the virus.
The investigation was initially met with criticism from some countries, including the United States, who accused China of withholding information and impeding the investigation. However, the report stated that the investigators had “unfettered access” to all sites and had conducted their work “in a scientific and objective manner.”
The WHO Director-General, Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, called the report “a very important beginning,” but noted that “further data and studies will be needed to reach more robust conclusions.” He also urged all countries to “work together in a spirit of solidarity and cooperation” to prevent future pandemics.
