By By Tim Sandle Dec 21, 2012 in Science Three strains of avian influenza viruses have been detected in pigs in southern China. The range of different viruses is important because pigs are a common source for spreading flu. The reason why scientists study pigs closely in relation to flu is because pigs can be infected with both human and avian influenza viruses. Pigs are thought to serve as "mixing vessels" for different flu strains and pigs may well be the source of pandemics. Commenting on the research, Guihong Zhang The findings have been The news that different strains of bird flu have been detected in pigs and the associated finding that the viruses have been spread from pig to pig has been reported by Guihong Zhang and colleagues of the College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China.The reason why scientists study pigs closely in relation to flu is because pigs can be infected with both human and avian influenza viruses. Pigs are thought to serve as "mixing vessels" for different flu strains and pigs may well be the source of pandemics.Commenting on the research, Guihong Zhang remarked : “We recommend strongly that the pork industry worldwide should monitor the prevalence of influenza in pigs, considering their important role in transmitting this virus to humans.”The findings have been published in the Journal of Clinical Microbiology. More about Bird flu, Pigs, China, Avian flu More news from Bird flu Pigs China Avian flu