FAO/OIE: bird flu could worsen
According to a joint statement from FAO and the World Animal Health Organisation (OIE), released February 1, 2005, the new wave of Avian Influenza outbreaks in
"The disease will be present for several years in the countries that experienced outbreaks during 2004," the two agencies said. "Avian Influenza is an ongoing emergency disease that spreads across borders. It has serious implications for the public and animal health sector in the affected countries.
"The international community has to realize that some poor countries in
According to the statement, the immediate challenge is to control the disease at source in the infected countries and stop the possible spread of the virus to other regions.
"The battle against bird flu can only be won if more efforts and resources are directed to containment of the virus in animals in rural areas," FAO/OIE said.
Water birds, particularly ducks, are considered as a reservoir of infection. The chances for spillover from ducks inhabiting the vast wetlands to poultry production units in villages or on commercial farms need to be significantly decreased. Strict biosecurity measures need to be applied throughout the poultry production chain, from farms and smallholdings to distribution channels, markets and retailers.
In order to contain the bird flu epidemic, infected countries such as Vietnam and Indonesia need the support of the international community to strengthen the veterinary infrastructure and implement effective control strategies, based on better biosecurity, modernised industry practices and, where appropriate, vaccination.
Since February 2004, donors have provided around $18 million for emergency activities and capacity building, but much more resources are urgently needed.
The FAO/OIE warned that the tsunami disaster may worsen the bird flu situation in
A regional FAO/OIE meeting on Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza will be held in
