Don't know if this is just a sick coincidence but....
2007 - Chinese year of the Chicken –
Bird Flu Pandemic devastates parts of Asia
2008 - Chinese year of the Horse –
Equine Influenza decimates Australian racing
2009 - Chinese year of the Pig –
Swine Flu Pandemic kills hundreds of pigs (And people) around the globe.
Gentleman beware
It gets worse........
next year......
2010 - Chinese year of the Cock 