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WHO trains CDA staff in combating bird flu

ISLAMABAD: Following the identification of H5N1 in dead crows in Islamabad, the Ministry of Health in collaboration with the World Health Organisation and the Ministry of Food, Agriculture and Livestock (MINFAL) has trained the Capital Development Authority (CDA) staff in using personnel protective equipment (PPE) and disposing off dead birds.

The PPE includes items such as masks, paper covers, gloves, hair covers and goggles to protect people who might have to handle infected birds. According to a press release issued on Friday, the purpose of the training was to prevent the spread of bird flu to humans. The training session was arranged in the Rose and Jasmine Gardens and was attended by CDA, health ministry and WHO officials.

The CDA has also announced that it had set up a help line (1334) and asked people to immediately report any dead birds on the number.

In the past week, an unusual number of dead crows were found in the city. Health authorities had also announced on Thursday that they found the bird flu virus in two of the eight birds they had tested.

According to training session details, avian influenza is a disease caused by the H5N1 viral strain and has been reported in the past few years throughout the world. According to WHO recommendations, people should take extra care while handling domestic and wild birds, especially poultry. In case they find a dead bird they should bury it deep in ground and use protective equipment to avoid direct contact with birds. online

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