DDC Increases Bird Flu Monitoring Following US Cases

The Department of Disease Control (DDC) is ramping up its bird flu watch following reports of human infections in the United States. Dr Thongchai Keeratihattayakorn, the Head of the DDC, said on Sunday that recent cases of the H5N1 bird flu in the US show the importance of careful monitoring. This is especially true since these cases came from cows.

The first case in the US was found in Texas on April 1, with a second one in Michigan on May 22. However, Dr Thongchai reassured that Thailand has a low risk of similar outbreaks because it doesn't import dairy cows from the US. He highlighted that the country's last major bird flu outbreak was in 2004. Since then, strong monitoring systems involving several departments have been in place.

The DDC is also working with US health authorities to track bird flu infections in animals and people. They are increasing their surveillance by checking international passengers for flu-like symptoms and planning meetings with conservation groups to strengthen their public health defenses.

Dr Apichart Vachirapan, the deputy head of the DDC, reminded everyone that although Thailand hasn't had any bird flu cases for years, it's still important to stay cautious. He said people should avoid touching sick or dead birds, clean their hands after touching animals, and ensure that poultry and eggs are thoroughly cooked. He also emphasized the need to immediately report any unusual bird and poultry deaths to livestock authorities.

File photo for reference only. Courtesy of Google

-- 2024-05-27

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