New Bird Flu Outbreaks Require Strong Vigilance

According to this article, the number of outbreaks of avian influenza in January 2007 has been lower than the epidemic outbreaks of 2006. However, despite this lower number, eight countries have reported new cases of the virus in the first few weeks of 2007. These new cases have prompted the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) to remind countries to remain vigilant and cooperate with international organisations in the fight against bird flu.

Speaking at a press conference in Bangkok, a Senior Officer of the FAO stated that “[r]ecent outbreaks are following a seasonal pattern and do not come as a great surprise. But we need to remain on the alert as the recent outbreaks show. It is crucial that countries themselves step up their surveillance, detection and rapid response measures.”

The article identifies 3 key methods to successful avian flu control campaigns:

• transparency about disease outbreaks;
• compensation plans; and
• involving farmers and poultry producers directly in surveillance and reporting activities.

According to the article, the high number of unreported bird flu outbreaks creates a challenge for implementing a successful control campaign. The FAO also suggested that instead of banning backyard poultry or duck production, farmers should be encouraged to take part in virus control and vaccination campaigns.