November 15, 2005

Indonesia to conduct door-to-door surveillance of bird flu

Indonesian President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono has given support for door-to-door surveillance to curb the spread of bird flu in the country, according to Agriculture Minister Anton Apriyanto.

Apriyanto said bird flu had not only hit poultry but also residential areas, thus indicating the need to monitor homes as well.

He added that his ministry had set aside Rp107 billion (about US$10.7 million) this year for the measures, and the amount would eventually be raised to Rp200 billion (about US$20 million).

Meanwhile, Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) said it would likely contribute US$2 million to help member nations fight bird flu.

APEC said the fund sought to reduce losses caused by bird flu, that could negatively affect economic growth of member nations.