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Why are there so many viruses and diseases in the rainforest?
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March 30th, 2016
It seems like the world’s worst diseases: HIV, ebola, etc. originated in the rainforest (particularly, the Congo Rainforest). What is it about the rainforest that allows these horrifying diseas and viruses to exist?
Is it simply a result of warm and humid climate? The diversity of animals and plants? The “unexplored” nature of it? Richard Preston, in his non-fiction book The Hot Zone, suggests that the viruses are a natural protection for the rainforest: that they signify areas that humans are not meant to encroach upon. Interesting, but I don’t know if I buy it.
What do you think?
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