May 17, 2005

Indonesia begins testing pigs for bird flu virus

Indonesia has discovered the bird flu virus in swine and has started testing pigs in several regions. Health experts say that because pigs can carry human and avian viruses, the genes could then become intertwined in their bodies to form new virulent strains that can be passed on to humans.

Tri Satya Putri Naipospos, director of animal health at the Indonesia agriculture ministry said authorities are taking the necessary bio-security and surveillance measures the keep the situation under control, and no decision has been made on whether to conduct a mass cull of pigs.