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'No need to panic over H5N1'
10/02/2006 21:19 - (SA)
Recent occurrences of bird flu in Nigeria, although concerning, were no reason to panic in South Africa, said Health Minister Manto Tshabalala-Msimang on Friday.
"Yes, we have been really concerned about the issue," she said.
"Therefore the department of health... has been monitoring constantly global health developments in this area, and as such takes note of the recent confirmation of H5N1 influenza in domestic birds in Nigeria.
"The department wishes to emphasise that the recent development in Nigeria, although on our continent, should not be a cause for panic, as it poses no health risk to the South African population," she said.
Government was paying particular attention to the issue, and South Africa's animal health surveillance and monitoring system was recently commended by the world organisation of animal health, which declared the country free of avian flu.
To date, no case of bird flu caused by the H5N1 strain had been reported in South Africa.
Preparedness plan
The last time the H5N2 strain was detected was at ostrich farms in the Eastern Cape in August 2004, and had since been successfully contained.
However, the department would continue to strengthen its measures to reduce the opportunities for human exposure to infection by the virus.
A preparedness plan for managing any future pandemic was in place, said Tshabalala-Msimang.
Earlier on Friday, the World Health Organisation (WHO) said: "The single most important public health priority at this stage is to warn people about the dangers of close contact with sick or dead birds infected with H5N1."
Spokesperson Maria Cheng said: "Experience in Asian countries and in Turkey underscores the fact that immediate, clear public information is critical to help protect human health. Slaughtering, de-feathering or butchering infected, sick or dead birds can put people at risk."
Cheng warned that the home slaughter and consumption of birds that appeared to be sick was dangerous. Those culling and disposing of birds should have protective equipment.
The WHO was ready to help all African countries take measures to reduce the risks of H5N1, Cheng added.
- SAPA
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