December 9, 2005

Romania suspects new bird flu cases
 

Gabriel Predoi, an official from Romania's Animal Health Agency, said three chicken farms in Zavoaia village in Braila County had suspected bird flu cases. Preliminary tests led to suspicions that the virus was present, but more detailed tests were needed to confirm them, he added.

The three chicken farms have already been quarantined.

Meanwhile, local authorities set up disinfection checkpoints on all roads out of the county. Officials also advised villagers to keep domesticated birds away from contact with migratory birds to reduce the risk of infection.

Millions of migratory birds pass through the Danube Delta region on their way to warmer winter climates in North Africa. Part of the delta is located in Romania.

So far, the country has not reported any human cases of bird flu.