December 4, 2007

Myanmar keeps bird flu under control

Myanmar announced the fresh bird flu outbreak in its border area of Kengtung in eastern Shan state to be under control.

The bird flu virus was detected on some chickens and ducks of local species at a village farm in Kengtung on November 18.

Local authorities culled 14,889 chickens, ducks and geese within a week after unusual deaths were found among fowls traded in the area, the Myanmar Livestock and Veterinary Department said.

Other measures of disinfecting of the farm, restriction of transport of chicken and biosecurity were immediately taken. The government also urged the people to prevent the entry of poultry and birds from neighbouring countries into Myanmar.

Earlier in October, trace of H5 virus was found at a poultry farm in Yangon division's Hmawby township with no symptom of bird flu detected.