January 19, 2007

Sri Lanka tests dead birds for any link to bird fu virus

Sri Lankan health officials said Thursday (Jan 18) that they were collecting samples of dead birds from different locations to ascertain any link with deadly bird flu.

"We are collecting samples of birds who are alleged to have died in an unusual manner from three locations of the country," said Dr. Harsha Perera.

The birds died at two lakes in Kurunegala in central Sri Lanka, according to residents who reported the deaths last week.

Perera said samples from the first lake proved negative and tests were ongoing of samples from the second lake. The dead birds included both local and migratory birds. 

Sri Lanka has so far not reported any cases of bird flu, but officials have been keeping a close eye on poultry farms and bird sanctuaries.

Health Ministry spokesman Dharma Wanninayake said Sri Lanka is free of bird flu and no case has been reported so far.