September 29, 2005

Indonesia prepares for potential bird flu pandemic

Indonesia has prepared itself for a potential bird flu pandemic by forming a special team geared for such an event, the country's government said.  The team would coordinate foreign assistance and funding for Indonesia against the disease.

The team was formed following the recent deaths of six Indonesians due to bird flu.

Foreign aid could be contributed through the team, or be in the form of logistical support and human resources, the government said.

Meanwhile, at least 54 Indonesians were being treated recently for suspected bird flu, according to officials.

Jakarta's Sulianto Saroso hospital for infectious diseases said it would soon discharge three of 20 suspected bird flu patients after they tested negative for the disease. The two adult men and one two-year-old infant would be able to leave the hospital once health authorities granted them clearance.

The latest suspected case was a 23-year-old man from Jakarta admitted to the hospital recently.

Blood and mucus samples from the patients were being tested locally and any results indicating the virus's presence would be sent to World Health Organization laboratories in Hong Kong for confirmation.