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14/10/2005
EU meeting on bird flu crisis
Veterinary experts from the European Union are meeting to discuss emergency measures to prevent the spread of avian flu.
The meeting follows the discovery of the deadly H5N1 virus, which has killed over 60 people in south east Asia, on a poultry farm in Turkey.
Further test results on birds found in Romania are also being carried out to see if they were infected with the virus.
It has also been reported that nine people are under medical observation in Turkey, following reports of mysterious bird deaths in their neighbourhood, which is understood to be close to where the H5N1 virus was discovered.
At the meeting, experts are expected to discuss a number of proposals aimed at limiting the risk of contact between poultry in high-risk areas and wild birds. It is though that one recommendation could involve keeping free-range poultry indoors.
On Thursday, EU Health Commissioner Markos Kyprianou urged all European citizens at risk of flu, such as those aged over 65 and children with health conditions such as asthma and diabetes, to get the seasonal flu jab.
Scientists have expressed concern that if anyone suffering from ordinary flu contracted bird flu, it could lead to the mutation of the virus, enabling it to spread from person to person, which could lead to a pandemic. Currently, humans can only contract bird flu if they come into contact with infected birds.
The EU has also recommended that countries stockpile anti-viral drugs in preparation for a pandemic.
(KMcA/SP)
The meeting follows the discovery of the deadly H5N1 virus, which has killed over 60 people in south east Asia, on a poultry farm in Turkey.
Further test results on birds found in Romania are also being carried out to see if they were infected with the virus.
It has also been reported that nine people are under medical observation in Turkey, following reports of mysterious bird deaths in their neighbourhood, which is understood to be close to where the H5N1 virus was discovered.
At the meeting, experts are expected to discuss a number of proposals aimed at limiting the risk of contact between poultry in high-risk areas and wild birds. It is though that one recommendation could involve keeping free-range poultry indoors.
On Thursday, EU Health Commissioner Markos Kyprianou urged all European citizens at risk of flu, such as those aged over 65 and children with health conditions such as asthma and diabetes, to get the seasonal flu jab.
Scientists have expressed concern that if anyone suffering from ordinary flu contracted bird flu, it could lead to the mutation of the virus, enabling it to spread from person to person, which could lead to a pandemic. Currently, humans can only contract bird flu if they come into contact with infected birds.
The EU has also recommended that countries stockpile anti-viral drugs in preparation for a pandemic.
(KMcA/SP)
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Northern Ireland WeatherToday:A showery start with outbreaks most frequent north of Lough Neagh and through the morning, before dwindling during the afternoon as the northwest breezes ease and brighter spells of weak sunshine prosper. Maximum temperature 8 °C.Tonight:A dry night, save for a few light showers around the coasts, with prolonged clear spells and light winds bringing a frosty dawn for many in central and southern parts. Minimum temperature -3 °C.
