Chinese government cautions against bird flu outbreak

Various localities and relevant departments were urged to take "all possible measures" to guard against outbreaks of the highly pathogenic avian influenza in China, according to a teleconference in Beijing on January 28 afternoon by the State Council.

Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao delivered an edict calling for tightened monitoring efforts and preventive measures in key regions against the bird flu. The Premier also urged more personnel and technological training and demanded emergency plans to be formulated in advance of possible outbreaks.

Addressing the teleconference, Vice Premier Hui Liangyu demanded all localities and relevant departments carefully implement Premier Wen's directive.

Although China succeeded in fighting bird flu virus last year and there have been no outbreaks reported so far this year, some Chinese localities are still not properly prepared for a possible outbreak especially while neighboring countries are facing resurgence of bird flu and posing a threat to China.

Hui called for an enhanced awareness of the flu and its possible effects.

The Vice Premier emphasized the effectiveness of the preventive works and demanded local vets strengthen efforts in vaccinating poultry, especially in large farms in key areas, as well as conducting preventive work according to China's animal quarantine law.

In addition, he said emergency plans should be made to ensure effective responses to possible outbreaks. Relevant checks should be strengthened in border regions and particularly southern waters as well as poultry markets in large and middle-sized cities, he said.

He also called for "responsible guidance" on work concerning prevention and control of the virus.

State councilor and Secretary-General of the State Council Hua Jianmin presided over Friday's conference.

Source: Xinhua