# 1910
Earlier this week we were told that Corporal Cho tested positive on primary and secondary tests, but that a final determination would take 3 weeks. Now, just a few days later we're told the soldier is `not likely to be infected with deadly strain', but that he remains in quarantine, and final tests will be complete in three weeks.
According to authorities, Cho is infected with `a less deadly variant' of avian influenza.
Exactly what that means is unclear.
Are the suggesting that Corporal Cho is infected with an entirely different strain, such as the H7N7 or H7N2 avian flu? Or are they basing their analysis on Cho's reportedly mild symptoms, and believe they are seeing a lower pathogenic version of H5N1?
Both are possibilities, unfortunately this news report simply doesn't provide enough detail to know.
A pity, since this sort of news story, absent of any real information, comes off more as damage control than real news.
Anyway, for what it's worth, here is the story that appeared on Chosun.com.
Bird Flu Patient 'Not Infected' With Deadly Strain
Updated Apr.24,2008 06:21 KST
A Korean soldier who was involved in the culling process of poultry infected with bird flu has been found to be carrying a less deadly variant of avian influenza.
According to the Korea Center for Disease Control and Prevention, the corporal, identified only by his surname Cho, is not likely to be infected with the deadly strain of H5N1.
Authorities are also linking Cho's earlier symptoms of high fever to bacterial pneumonia.
Complete results on the tests being conducted on the soldier will be available in about three weeks. Until then, Cho is expected to remain in a quarantine ward.
Arirang News
