Editorial
Containing avian flu
All-out efforts needed
WITH bird flu spreading quickly to nine more districts, the crisis that the poultry sector has been going through has deepened further. However, culling of the infected birds is going on in full swing and the livestock authorities have taken a number of precautionary measures to contain the menace, which has already done huge damage to the poultry farm owners and all others in the trade. Besides, it must be treated as a public health hazard.
The need of the hour is to keep the situation under control. We fully endorse the position that caution is in order, as getting panicky will only make it more difficult for us to deal with the situation. The situation has been further compounded by the outbreak of the flu in almost epidemic form in neighbouring West Bengal. So entry of poultry and eggs from across the border has to be checked strictly. Our authorities should also remain in touch with the West Bengal government and exchange information on the latest developments on either side of the border.
The experts have suggested a number of steps that will considerably reduce the risk of the avian flu spreading further. People in the poultry trade and the consumers have been advised to adopt certain measures to keep themselves safe. Extensive use of soaps and disinfectants has been recommended to neutralise the threat along with usage of masks and gloves. Obviously, a positive response from the people is needed to contain the spread of the flu. Hygienic disposal of chicken entrails has to be ensured for the safety of all concerned.
The livestock authorities responded quickly and started eliminating the infected birds. The DCC officials have held a meeting with the poultry businessmen with a view to ensuring that the flu does not spread into the densely populated city.
The outbreak of bird flu is nothing new in Bangladesh. However, it is a potential threat to humans and, as such, the government agencies and the people concerned have to work in tandem to eliminate it as soon as possible.
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