August 12, 2004

Brunei Remains Free From Bird Flu
 

Steps taken to detect the occurrence of bird flu (avian flu) in the country by Brunei's Ministry of Health showed that the Sultanate is free from the disease.

This was revealed at the second National Task Force Meeting on Zonotic Diseases Threatening the Public's Health, held yesterday.

The meeting was co-chaired by the Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Health and Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Industry and Primary Resources and attended by members from relevant ministries and departments.

The main objective of the meeting was to ascertain the current status and to step up surveillance efforts, control and preventive measures of Zonotic Diseases especially the bird flu.

With reference to recent reports of occurrences of bird flu in Thailand and Vietnam, the meeting confirmed that no cases have been reported in the country, a press release said.

Meanwhile, the Agriculture Department, Ministry of Industry and Primary Resources are continuing the surveillance and observational measures on farms including backyard breeding grounds and pet shops.

Inspections are still being carried out at control posts with the cooperation of the Royal Customs and Excise Department, Royal Brunei Police Force and relevant government agencies. The Sultanate is still enforcing imports from affected countries.

The Ministry of Health and Agriculture Department disclosed that they will be in continuous contact with the World Health Organisation pertaining to veterinary health, and with regional authorities in gathering information on latest developments, guidelines to be followed regarding public health.