Sir: Xylella fastidious is a dangerous world crop disease that also causes several other diseases such as citrus variegated chlorosis, peach phony disease and leaf scorch diseases in almond and coffee. There is a lack of effective treatments to cure the plants once they get infected. A broad range of plant species are known to be susceptible, as well as there is high probability of further spreading once the bacterium has been introduced all around. According to concerned officials there is a clear need for Pakistan to take precautionary measures to prevent the import of this disease. PARI TAHIR Via Email