FAO appreciates Bird Flu control and containment in Nadia

Copy of Bengal Plus the statesman dated 14.02.2008 FAO team pleased with Nadia Flu controlStatesman News ServiceKRISHNAGAR, Feb 13: A team of invigilators consisting of two members from Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) visited the Krishnagar-I block today, to review the preventive measures taken by the district administration in view of the resent outbreak of Avian Influenza.Dr Mahendra Singh Oberoy, from Kathmandu, Nepal and Dr Subhash Morzaria from Bangkok, Thailand are the two members of FAO, the UN body that concentrates on trans-boundary animal diseases. The current focus of the organisation is on Avian Influenza.Dr Morzaria said: “We have come here not only for invigilation but also to exchange views on Avian Influenza. We are satisfied with the way this district has controlled the disease so fast.” When asked about the precautionary measures, Dr Oberoy said: “Awareness is what we should emphasise on. It is a continuous process and we should not stop till each and everyone knows what is Bird Flu and what should be done if the disease breaks out.”The sale of chicken has resumed on the Krishnagar PWD road, which falls within a five-km radius of the infected area, despite the ban being lifted only in areas that did not see an outbreak. Mr Amalendu Saha, the deputy director of the ARD department, he said: “Yes, chicken was sold today but it was a case of lack of awareness. The sellers had no idea of the ban on sale of chicken within a five-km radius of an area where Bird Flu was reported.”