# 1678
With three deaths since the first of the year (4 since December), outbreaks reported in poultry in several provinces, and even reports of additional human `suspected' cases, Vietnam is growing increasingly concerned that their containment and eradication efforts aren't doing the job.
Over the weekend provincial and municipal authorities were asked to reintensify public education, advising residents not to eat dead, sick or non-quarantined fowls, on how to dispose of dead poultry. Increased inspections of the poultry industry were also urged.
Minister exhorts bird flu countermeasures
Agriculture and Rural Development Minister Cao Duc Phat Sunday asked provincial and municipal authorities and relevant agencies to take urgent actions to thwart a possible avian flu outbreak.
The minister asked all local authorities to review and implement measures to prevent the epidemic, emphasizing that prevention is a task of utmost importance.
Communal governments and farmers are requested to take vigilance to keep the situation under control and prevent another outbreak.
Individuals and agencies will be penalized if an avian flu epidemic happens due to their irresponsibility.
Four people have been killed by the disease thus far since the beginning of the year.
