Brunei Takes Precautions Against Bird Flu
By Helena M. Mahathir

Bandar Seri Begawan - Brunei's Ministry of Health, taking heed of the World Health Organisation's (WHO) advice on bird flu, has set up an Influenza Pandemic Committee to put in place a plan of action to handle the avian influenza pandemic and safeguard the health of the citizens of the country.

Following several cases of bird flu among humans, especially in this region, the WHO has urged all countries to step up action and take necessary steps to handle the possibility of avian influenza virus cases.

This preparedness and precautionary action will serve as a measure to handle any instances of the spread of avian influenza reaching pandemic levels. .

This was announced by the Minister of Health, Pehin Dato Haji Awang Suyoi, in a press conference yesterday, which was also attended by Deputy Minister of Health, Pehin Dato Haji Awang Hazair and other senior officials from the ministry.

The committee in turn has set up sub-committees for a detailed compilation of the plan of action to manage the aspects that will cover control, surveillance and prevention; case management; technical support and logistics; media and public relations; laboratory as well as manpower.

The plan of action will focus on the main and important matters, which include supply of medicines, vaccine, adequate health facilities and medical equipment. In addition, the Pengiran Muda Mahkota Pengiran Muda Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah Hospital in Tutong has been recognised as the Influenza Case Quarantine' Centre.

The ministry will continue to monitor the situation of this deadly virus and will inform the public on prevention and control steps if needed.

Plans are also under way to set up a National Preparedness Committee that will involve other ministries in the country to ensure a high level of preparedness, and as a means of precautionary and preventive measures.

Meanwhile, a fourth case was reported a few days ago in Indonesia involving a 37-year-old woman whose death is suspected to be due to avian influenza. -- Courtesy of Borneo Bulletin

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