June 11, 2005

Brunei plans for possible bird flu attack

The threat of bird flu in several countries in Asia since 2004 has prompted the Brunei Agricultural Department at the Ministry of Industry and Primary Resources to prepare an action plan to curb any possibility of the bird flu virus from entering Brunei. A contingency plan has also been established should the epidemic reach the country.

Some measures already in place include the prohibition of imports of poultry and related products from affected countries and high-risk areas. The Agricultural Department has also been continuously monitoring chicken hatcheries in farms, private houses and pet shops.

The National Task Force Committee set up by the government to tackle Zoonatic Diseases, will draw up guidelines for an action plan if a bird flu outbreak should occur. The plan will additionally be reinforced by the Royal Brunei Armed Forces, Royal Brunei Police Force, Ministry of Health and the Fire Services Department.