Experts to consider bird flu dangers

Top Irish experts will today discuss the bird flu epidemic, which has already spread to several EU countries.

The Oireachtas Health Committee will quiz Disease Surveillance Unit officials and the Government's Chief Medical Officer, Dr Jim Kiely, in Leinster House.

The H5N1 strain of the avian influenza has killed at least 90 people since early 2003, mostly in south-east Asia.

It has so far been found in dead swans in Germany, Austria, Italy and Greece, and tests are continuing in other EU countries.

EU veterinary experts have called for increased surveillance of wild birds and stricter bans on imports of untreated feathers from outside the 25-country bloc.

Health Committee member Charlie O’Connor said today: “The hearings will offer an opportunity to outline the steps that are being taken to prepare the country for a possible outbreak of avian flu, and the implications of the deadly strain of the virus spreading to other EU states.

“I will be seeking assurances that as a country we are prepared for an outbreak, and that measures are in place to treat the most vulnerable people.

“The progress of the flu from Asia, to Africa and now the EU has been alarming. However, it is important that we do not become distracted by sensational reports on the virus and put in place a realistic response.”