"We've already taken action nationwide to help with the battle against the outbreak," SFDA spokeswoman Yan Jiangying was quoted as saying.

All local drug authorities registered with the SFDA have strengthened the surveillance and monitoring of the drugs and medical appliances being used to help contain the outbreak, she said.

Ran Xiangui, deputy director of Fuyang No 2 Hospital -- which the local health bureau has designated as the city's main treatment facility -- told China Daily that several measures were being taken to control the disease, including the administration of antiviral and immunity boosting injections of steroids and human immune serum globulin.

"We have an ample and safe supply of the drugs, and all necessary equipment, such as respirators and monitors," he said.

(Xinhua News Agency May 9, 2008)