The organization said wet markets like the Huanan Seafood Wholesale Market in China, where the novel coronavirus is believe to have originated, are breeding grounds for deadly diseases.
The letter added that"while the trajectory of the COVID-19 pandemic remains unpredictable, one thing is certain: Live-animal meat markets will continue to put the planet's human population at enormous risk."
"Live-animal markets are perfect breeding grounds for diseases, which can jump from various other species to humans, since stressed, injured, and sickly animals are commonly caged in public areas—sometimes even on sidewalks — where feces, blood, and offal can contaminate buyers and sellers and be tracked into restaurants or homes," the letter added.
"It's a matter of when — not if — the next pandemic will occur, as long as live-animal markets are permitted to continue endangering both humans and other animals," Newkirk added in a statement. A spokesperson for the WHO said it is working with the International Organization for Animal Health and the Food and Agricultural Organization to study the issue.World Health Organization advice for avoiding spread of coronavirus disease Wash hands after coughing or sneezing; when caring for the sick; before, during and after food preparation; before eating; after using the toilet; when hands are visibly dirty; and after handling animals or waste.Avoid touching your hands, nose and mouth.
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