【明報專訊】The Omicron and Delta virus strains have appeared simultaneously in Hong Kong. The government "cannot rule out" the possibility that the source of the Delta case was imported hamsters, and has ordered all pet shops that sell hamsters in Hong Kong to close temporarily. About 2,000 hamsters and other small animals will have to be put down. The Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department (AFCD) also "strongly advises" that citizens hand over hamsters purchased on or after the 22nd of last month to the department for "humane disposal". The decision has raised doubts about indiscriminate killing and caused fierce controversy in society.