A series of strong earthquakes have hit the county of Yushu, in the western Qinghai Province. The China Earthquake Networks Center has measured the main quake to be a magnitude of 7.1. The death toll is now estimated to be over 300. more ›

Looks like Ziketan is officially no longer a Ground Zero for pneumonic plague now that China has lifted the quarantine blockade around the Qinghai town. Though the outbreak has claimed three victims, no new infections had been reported for over a week and authorities decided it was time to end the quarantine. The disease had traveled to humans through a wild marmot, which came in contact with a dog, which later died. The dog's owner, a 32-year-old herdsman, became infected by fleas while burying his pet. It spread to his family and neighborhood, killing his father-in-law and neighbor. Nine other people are still hospitalized. Source: AFP more ›

Is this why the Shanghai government is freaking out with its new dog regulations? Its now suspected that a canine companion was the origin of the outbreak of pneumonic plague in Qinghai province. The dead dog most likely ate a plague-infected marmot. His owner then became infected while burying his dog and his relatives and neighbors became infected by coming near him without taking protective measures. So far three people in Ziketan have died, one patient is in critical condition, seven others have been confirmed infected and over 100,000 have been quarantined. Source: SCMP (paywalled) more ›

And now, Chris' final installment, covering the exciting final four days of the Santo Chino Motorcycle Ride. Congratulations, Chris! more ›