Human transmission of bird flu unlikely

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Source: CCTV.com | 01-23-2009 08:22

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China is stepping up efforts to control the spread of bird flu. An expert from the China Disease Prevention and Control Center says a human epidemic of the disease is not likely to occur.

An expert from the China Disease Prevention and Control  Center says a human epidemic of the disease is not likely  to occur.

China has ordered beefed-up efforts to curb the spread of bird flu. So far, 4 people have died of disease around the country. But there's nothing linking those the four cases. Expert says the situation is under control.

Dr. Shu Yuelong, Vice director of Chinese National Influenza Center, said, "I think the situation will last for a period of time. Individual cases may emerge from time to time, but I don't see there is possibility of an epidemic outbreak, both in China and other countries."

Shu says the virus is spread mainly from birds to humans, and is not spread between people. Preventing contact with sick or dead birds is the key to avoiding infection.

Dr. Shu Yuelong said, "People don't need to panic. To avoid infection, what they have to do is avoid contact with dead and sick fowl or birds as much as possible. If they do, they have to wash their hands quickly. "

The ministries of health, agriculture and the State Administration of Industry and Commerce are now working closely to supervise and manage live poultry markets. Local offices must maintain 24-hour on the spot supervision of the markets. Meanwhile, hospitals are required to devote more resources to diagnosing and treating human bird flu cases.

Editor:Zhang Ning