Around 100 local people are treated daily, according to Tangshan Red Cross secretary Chen Yinbao. The team's other major responsibility is monitoring the grounds for any possible epidemic. To date nothing of import has been reported.

“We report to local authorities every day," Kan Zhisheng added, noting that numerous flies and mosquitoes buzzed around. He also said that since the earthquake, another problem had appeared: dogs. These mongrels bite people randomly – owner and stranger alike.

"We have tended to 20 dog bites so far. You know, the earthquake may have altered something in the nature of these dogs," Kan said and shrugged, adding they had treated all of the cases in a timely fashion.

(China.org.cn June 13, 2008)