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Thailand, which hasn't recorded a human H5N1 infection in over two years, continues to aggressively monitor the public for any signs of bird flu in those districts where poultry have recently been affected.
Several suspect cases have tested negative over the past few days - hardly unusual given that the cold and flu season is underway in the northern hemisphere.
This enhanced surveillance will continue for at least the next 21 days.
Uthai Thani instigates 21 day surveillance in bird flu area
BANGKOK, Nov 14 (TNA) - Thailand's Public Health Ministry is keeping a close 21-day watch over local residents in Uthai Thani's Nong Chang district, after a dead fowl was discovered infected with deadly avian influenza on Thursday, a senior official said.
Public Health Minister Chalerm Ubamrung said disease-control prevention measures regarding avian influenza in humans have strictly been imposed to restore the confidence of local residents.
The ministry says it was aiming to prevent the deadly virus from spreading to humans in the area where the death of fowl had occurred. Moreover, cooperation of local residents in Sukothai's Thung Salium district would make the disease control quick and practical, stated Chalerm.
Meanwhile, Department of Disease Control director-general Dr. Somchai Chakrabhand said disease control in Uthai Thani's Nong Chang district was progressing steadily. Patients with respiratory symptoms indicating a possible exposure to avian influenza had been strictly screened to see whether there were at risk of contracting the virus.
In Nong Chang district, the special watch efforts had identified 21 suspected patients.
However, according to lab tests, there had not yet been any infected by the deadly virus, but rather they had common influenza. Test result of 902 patients nationwide have found no human bird flu cases.
The disease's main suspected symptom is fever and coughing in those living in the vicinity of places where birds, whether domestic fowl or wild, have been found.
Patients with such symptoms are suggested to see a doctor immediately. There will be a high chance of death if a treatment is not received in time. (TNA)
