31 Jan 2004

Fiji prepares for any possible outbreak of the deadly bird flu

8:41 am on 31 January 2004

Fiji is preparing for any possible outbreak of the deadly bird flu in the country or the Pacific region.

Government officials along with representatives from the health and agricultural sectors have met to discuss the issue following a letter outlining concerns from the World Health organisation.

WHO resident representative, Dr Ken Chan, told the meeting that any unusual deaths in animals should be reported and that hospitals should keep a close eye on cases of pneumonia and fever in patients.

He says they also agreed that a small working group should be set up should there be an outbreak.

The current bird flu has affected poultry in Cambodia, Japan, South Korea, Thailand and Vietnam.

At least six people have died in Vietnam from the infection.