October 17, 2005

South Korea steps up on anti-bird flu measures
 

South Korea has stepped up on anti-bird flu measures following the recent outbreaks in other Asian countries.

In a bid to contain the virus, Incheon International Airport has stepped up quarantine measures for passengers arriving from countries such as China and Thailand, which have been recently hit by the disease.

Travelers were required to pass through a quarantine carpet upon arriving at the airport as part of sterilisation procedures against the virus. Airport authorities would also inspect travelers' temperatures for any reaching 38 deg C and above.

Meanwhile, the Livestock Promotion Institute in South Kyongsang province planned to make an earlier-than-scheduled launch of anti-bird flu task forces.

Besides staying alert constantly, the institute also planned to collect the excrement of about 300 migratory birds living in major nesting areas, and test them for bird flu. It would also inspect poultry farms formerly hit by bird flu.

According to the government, about 1.18 million migratory birds migrate to South Korea every winter. In response, authorities would improve early warning systems and quarantine systems in hospitals to help prevent a potential pandemic.