Bird flu has been discovered in more than 10 provinces and
cities in China’s southern neighbor, Vietnam, since June, with a
total of 15 people killed by the virus and more than 60,000
chickens slaughtered. The General Administration of Quality
Supervision Inspection and Quarantine announced on Monday that
steps are being taken to ensure that it does not spread to
China.
People entering the country from Vietnam are required to report
to the entry-exit inspection and quarantine authorities any
symptoms resembling those of bird flu, such as fever, coughing and
muscle ache.
Those entering the Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region are required
to have their body temperatures checked as well, and anyone
presenting any symptoms of bird flu will be prohibited from
entering the region. Guangxi has designated certain hospitals to
treat those suspected of infection.
The administration suggested that anyone returning from Vietnam
who begins showing symptoms should seek medical attention
immediately.
Meanwhile, markets on the Sino-Vietnamese border are being
closely monitored to prevent the sale of poultry from Vietnam.
Vehicles crossing the border are also examined and
disinfected.
Inspection and quarantine agencies across China will offer
travelers the latest information on situation and tips on
preventing infection.
The administration has also offered suggestions on preventing
infection, advising people to avoid contaminated poultry and
infected individuals, and to treat the excrement of contaminated
birds with caution.
Raw or undercooked poultry should not be eaten and masks
should be worn when tending and butchering poultry.
China saw an isolated recurrence of bird flu in Anhui Province
in early July after the spring outbreak was quelled in March. The
Anhui outbreak was small and quickly brought under control.
(China Daily August 25,
2004)