Possible source: A Hong Kong University study suggests that the SARS virus may have spread from wild civet cats when they were trapped and slaughtered for human consumption.

A Hong Kong University study suggests that the SARS virus may have spread from wild civet cats to people.

In collaboration with Shenzhen scientists, the university researchers conducted tests on a number of wild animals over the last month and eventually found coronavirus in civet cats.

The animals are normally found in forests, and are actually part of the weasel family. They are genetically different from domestic cats.

Announcing the results at a press conference this afternoon, the head of the university's Department of Microbiology Yuen Kwok-yung said the genetic sequence of the coronavirus found in civet cats is similar to the SARS virus in humans.

Therefore, the research team believes that civet cats are most likely the source of the virus.

However, Mr Yuen did not rule out the possibility that the virus had spread from other animals to civet cats.

The researchers believe that the civet cats' secretions and faeces may contain coronavirus which may then spread to humans when the animals are being trapped, slaughtered or sold.

To prevent the spread of coronavirus, all game food animals should be raised, slaughtered and sold under careful monitoring, Mr Yuen said.

There is no connection between pet cats and wild civet cats, and no need for members of the public to abandon their pets.

The Government has not allowed the importation of all types of live civet cats for disease control purpose since 1994.

For the protection of public health, it will temporarily suspend the importation of game meat derived from civet cats.

There is no cause for alarm as wild civet cats are nocturnal and solitary animals seldom seen in Hong Kong.

The public should refrain from contact with wild civet cats and other wild animals as diseases as they can carry disease.

Members of the public are advised to wash their hands thoroughly if they come into contact with civet cats and other wild animals.