Asian countries join forces to fight bird flu

Asian countries hit by bird flu have joined forces to fight the H5N1 virus, agreeing to share information and updates about outbreaks, while also pledging to collaborate to develop and produce drugs and diagnostic tests, and promote research.

Countries party to the 'Delhi Declaration', which was agreed after a meeting sponsored by the World Health Organisation, include China, Indonesia, India and Thailand, amongst others.

The pact was made after the death of a teenager in Thailand who was infected with the avian influenza virus.

Meanwhile, Thai officials, shaken by Monday's death of the 17-year-old boy, said they would push for the use of the drug Tamiflu in suspected cases rather than waiting for lab results.

More news and information on bird flu.

Editor WorldPoultry