The New Nation - Internet Edition

BSS, Chittagong

Health Secretary A K M Jafarullah Khan said the government has taken all necessary measures to tackle the bird flu situation.

Speaking at a meeting with journalists here Thursday night, the health secretary called for creating mass awareness to prevent further spread of the disease.

Director General of Health Department Prof. Abul Fayez was also present at the meeting held in the Chittagong Press Club conference room.

Jafarullah Khan called upon the journalists to project the correct picture of the bird flu situation so panic is not spread. He said the issue is very sensitive as the poultry sector is an important contributor to the economy. "None was found infected with bird flu after screening of 823 suspected patients throughout the country," he said and emphasized that one should strictly follow health guidelines to keep one safe from being affected.

He said the government was actively considering to set up a full-fledged lab in Chittagong to carry out test on avian influenza virus.

Prof. Abul Fayez said bird flu had been detected so far at 113 poultry farms under 37 districts and 4,79,593 fowls were culled in the meantime.

Health workers are working at the field level to prevent and control the disease, the DG Health said, adding that the government has adequate preparations including sufficient stock of medicines and other logistics to tackle the situation.