Bird flu threat - GPs must be kept in the loop

AMID growing fears that migratory birds could carry a deadly flu virus to Ireland, it would be impossible to overstate the urgency of maintaining the highest level of vigilance in the face of this potentially lethal disease.

While it is reassuring that Government departments are beginning to put measures in place to combat an outbreak, the lack of basic information for GPs who will figure in the front line of the battle against bird flu is extremely worrying.

Concerns are growing across Europe where veterinary experts are discussing ways of dealing with the spread of the virus. Meanwhile, the World Health Organisation has called on countries to step up surveillance of both flocks and humans.