China is enhancing its response to epidemic contingencies at its ports as the global alert about deadly bird flu grows.

The Ministry of Health (MOH) and State Quality and Quarantine Administration on Thursday decided to establish jointly a cooperative mechanism at China's ports to make contingency responses to possible epidemic outbreaks.

The information office of the MOH on Friday said the cooperation involves making contingency plans, strengthening the supervision of imported and exported goods for medical purposes via ports, and establishing a port reporting system for imported epidemics and the outbreak of food-oriented diseases.

The two departments also set to improve the health surveillance of passengers through ports, the transfer of infectious patients and information exchanges on public health issues.

Additionally, the two departments have decided to enhance technological and academic cooperation in port epidemic prevention and control, deciding to establish expert teams and conduct training programs. Regular joint drills and inspections will be carried out at ports as well.

Source: Xinhua