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Holiday Turbulence: Flight Delays Hit Major Canadian Airports on Boxing Day

  Passengers wait in a check-in line at Vancouver International Airport after a snowstorm crippled operations during the holidays in 2022.   Travelers across Canada are facing a challenging Boxing Day as major airports report widespread delays and cancellations triggered by winter weather and heavy post‑holiday traffic. With thousands of passengers returning home or heading out for year‑end vacations, the timing couldn’t be more disruptive. Toronto Pearson, the country’s busiest airport, is experiencing the most significant impact. A mix of snow, freezing drizzle, and strong winds has slowed de‑icing operations and reduced runway capacity. Long lines at security and check‑in counters are adding to the congestion, with some travelers reporting wait times stretching beyond an hour. Ottawa, Montreal, and Vancouver airports are also dealing with delays, though to varying degrees. In Eastern Canada, Halifax is managing a combination of fog and residual holiday traffic, while air...

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Zoonotic Diseases: Understanding the Jump from Animals to Humans

 

Zoonotic diseases are those that naturally transfer from vertebrate animals to humans. These infections can pose risks to human health, and some of the most notable examples include:

  1. COVID-19: The pandemic caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus originated from animals, likely bats, and spread globally. Although the risk to humans is generally low, the virus continues to impact lives worldwide.

  2. Avian Flu (H5N1): Also known as bird flu, this zoonotic disease has affected both birds and humans. While human cases are relatively rare, scientists remain concerned about its potential to spread further.

  3. Ebola Virus: Ebola outbreaks have occurred in Africa, with the virus crossing from animals (likely bats or primates) to humans. These outbreaks can be severe and deadly.

  4. Salmonellosis: Caused by Salmonella bacteria, this zoonotic infection often results from consuming contaminated food or water. It can cause gastrointestinal symptoms in humans.

Understanding zoonotic diseases is crucial for preventing future outbreaks. Factors like climate change and increased human-animal interactions contribute to their emergence. As we navigate these risks, vigilance and research remain essential to safeguarding public health. 

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