Thailand on alert against bird flu

BANGKOK, January 11 (TNA) - The Thai government, through the Ministry of Public Health, has ordered health officials in all provinces to watch out for all strains of avian influenza and warn people not to touch any poultry that died unusually. Thai Public Health Minister Dr. Piyasakol Sakolsatayadorn told journalists on January 10 that the order was issued in response to the Geneva-based World Health Organization (WTO)'s continual reports on infections with avian influenza among people and animals, some strains of which could be transmitted to people. Dr. Piyasakol acknowleged that the weather in Thailand is suitable for the spread of avian flu, while other countries have also kept under close surveillance against avian influenza following reports on deaths caused by the H5N6 strain of the disease. The minister stressed that he has, therefore, ordered provincial health officials, as well as disease control, livestock development and national park officials to watch out for any possible infection with avian influenza among humans and animals in Thailand. The minister advised local traders not to take sick or dead poultry for sales and consumers to only consume cooked food, often wash their hands and avoid contacting poultry. The minister also suggested people who suspect a possible infection to immediately contact his ministry's Department of Disease Control at its hotline, number 1422, around the clock. According to the minister, WHO has not yet, however, issued any travel advisory relating to re-emerging avian influenza. (TNA)