Thailand prepares for H5N1

Avian flu vigilance intensifies as wild bird migration season begins BANGKOK, Sept 4 (TNA) - Thailand's Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives has stepped up its measures to control bird flu as the main migratory season for wild fowls is coming, Vice Minister Charal Trinvuthipong said on Monday.

Chairing a meeting of agencies responsible for bird flu control, Dr.Charal, director of the government's command centre on avian influenza, said efficiency in bird flu prevention must be fine-tuned as the season is approaching for migratory birds which might carry the H5N1 virus to pass through Thailand.

Furthermore, he reported, it has been discovered that local residents in several areas have been reluctant to disclose, and even covered up, information about poultry which died of unidentified causes.

To strengthen prevention, Livestock Development Department chief Yukol Limlamthong said, agricultural volunteers have been deployed to help public health volunteers to monitor bird flu outbreaks, while
thorough local inspections and examinations for bird flu in vulnerable areas nationwide will be resumed in October.

Meanwhile, he said, the department will soon submit its budget for promoting safer poultry husbandry, with Bt200,000 to be allocated for farmers in each sub-district nationwide.

The budget request will be presented to Agriculture and Cooperatives Minister Khunying Sudarat Keyuraphan before being forwarded to the Cabinet for its approval, Dr.Charal said. (TNA)-E009



Last Update : 2006-09-04 / 13:16:16 (GMT+7:00)