©Reuters
Vocabulary:
I will read the words, meanings, and sample sentences. Then, repeat after me.
- disclose /dih-SKLOHZ/
- devise /dih-VAHYZ/
- curbing /KUR-bing /
- deceased /dih-SEEST/
- formulate /FAWR-myuh-leyt/
[verb] – to make something known publicly or to show something that was hidden
The company has not yet disclosed the details of its new product.
[verb] – to invent a plan, system, object, etc., usually using your intelligence or imagination
The team will devise a plan to improve the project’s efficiency.
[gerund] – act of restraining, controlling, or limiting something
Curbing the air pollution is the city’s ultimate goal.
[adjective] – an individual or organism that has recently died
The deceased soldier will be honored in a memorial service.
[verb] – to develop all the details of a plan for doing something
Scientists are working to formulate a vaccine for the new virus.
Article reading:
Please read the whole article. Then, I will check your pronunciation and intonation.
Japan has encountered the first instance of the highly pathogenic H5-type bird flu for this season, originating at a poultry farm in the southern part of the country, as reported by NHK on November 25, 2023. The affected farm, located in Saga prefecture, is now at the center of attention, with plans to cull around 40,000 birds in an effort to contain the virus and prevent its dissemination. This information comes directly from agriculture ministry officials, although their identities have not been disclosed, and the ministry was unavailable for comment beyond regular business hours. In response to this alarming development, Prime Minister Fumio Kishida is scheduled to hold a meeting with pertinent cabinet ministers to devise comprehensive measures aimed at curbing the spread of the virus.
The identification of the virus was prompted by genetic testing conducted after the discovery of some deceased poultry birds on the farm on November 24, 2023, according to the NHK report. This method of detection underscores the rigorous surveillance and diagnostic procedures in place to swiftly address potential outbreaks. Highly pathogenic avian influenza has been a global challenge in recent years, necessitating large-scale culling efforts to mitigate its impact. Japan’s swift response not only involves the culling of affected birds but also includes high-level discussions to formulate strategic measures for preventing the escalation of the avian influenza outbreak. The proactive approach taken by Japan aligns with international efforts to safeguard both poultry populations and public health from the ramifications of this contagious virus.
The identification of the virus was prompted by genetic testing conducted after the discovery of some deceased poultry birds on the farm on November 24, 2023, according to the NHK report. This method of detection underscores the rigorous surveillance and diagnostic procedures in place to swiftly address potential outbreaks. Highly pathogenic avian influenza has been a global challenge in recent years, necessitating large-scale culling efforts to mitigate its impact. Japan’s swift response not only involves the culling of affected birds but also includes high-level discussions to formulate strategic measures for preventing the escalation of the avian influenza outbreak. The proactive approach taken by Japan aligns with international efforts to safeguard both poultry populations and public health from the ramifications of this contagious virus.
Discussion Questions:
I will read each question. Then, please answer them.
- Have you ever experienced or witnessed the impact of a disease outbreak, such as avian influenza, in your community or region? If yes, can you share your personal observations or experiences during that time? If not, how do you think your community would handle such a situation based on your current understanding of preventive measures?
- Have you, a family member, or a friend ever been involved in the agricultural sector, particularly in poultry farming? If yes, could you share any insights into the challenges faced during disease outbreaks like avian influenza and the measures taken to safeguard both poultry populations and public health? If not, based on the information in the article, what aspects of poultry farming during a disease outbreak surprised you the most or raised concerns for you?
- Do you believe that culling affected birds is an appropriate and effective measure to curb the spread of avian influenza, based on the information provided in the article?
- Given the swift response by Japan to the avian influenza outbreak, what do you think are the key factors that contribute to an effective and timely government response in the face of a potential epidemic? How might these factors differ in various regions or countries?
- Reflecting on the global challenge of highly pathogenic avian influenza, do you believe international collaboration and information-sharing among countries are essential in effectively addressing and mitigating the impact of such diseases? What challenges or barriers might exist in fostering this kind of global cooperation, and how could they be overcome?
Summarization
Please summarize the whole article using your own words and expressions. You will have one minute to prepare before you answer.
Describe:
Please explain the definition of each word listed below based on your understanding. You can provide example sentences if needed.
- official
- originate
- outbreak
- prompt
- swift