• THE transference of this animal virus to humans is due to human behaviour. The human behaviour in question is the mistreatment of animals.

That is, entrapment of animals in atrocious conditions in the wild animal markets in China; intensive rearing in factory farms; feeding animal products to herbivores; and animal experimentation. These practices have all had dire consequences for human beings.

Now that the whole world is affected by the COVID-19 pandemic, it is time to review man’s exploitation of animals – if only in self-interest – if future epidemics are to be avoided.

SUE ROEBUCK, N7