Bird flu control

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THE fresh occurrence of the deadly avian flu has been reported in the country. After the H5N1 virus had affected 47 out of the country's 64 districts in 2007, the authorities had to kill more than 1.65 million birds. Though, according to WHO report, only a 16-month old baby was infected, the deadly virus took at least 247 human lives in Asia since 2003.
This time the authorities concerned have stepped up surveillance, particularly in the border areas to check the import of bird flu infected chicks. Meanwhile, 10,000 birds were culled at several infected firms and surrounding areas in five districts.
We cannot ignore its socio-economic impact in the country. We have to avoid chicken in our daily menu though it is difficult because children and elderly people like it. The poultry farm owners are going to face another crisis. The government should initiate regular monthly checks of poultry firms to deter avian flu occurrence in future.
Asif Karim
Purana Paltan, Dhaka