BIRATNAGAR, DEC 29 - The six districts of the eastern development region of the country are at risk of bird flu and swine flu due to the illegal import and export of bird and animal products through the open border.

Concerned experts have warned that Jhapa, Ilam, Morang, Sunsari, Saptari and Siraha districts in the region are at high risk from these diseases if the illegal export and import of animals and birds and their products are not checked.

The occurrence of bird flu in Bangladesh, in West Bengal and Bihar states of India and in Jhapa district in Nepal in the past proves that Jhapa is fully at risk from the diseases.

Director at the Department of Veterinary Sciences, Dr. Narayan Ghimire said the government had to spend approximately Rs. 20 million for controlling the outbreak of these diseases twice in the district in the past.

The international aid agencies working in the health sector have also pointed out to the high possibility of the outbreak of bird flu and swine flu in Jhapa, Bangladesh and West Bengal state of India.

Regional Director at the Eastern Region Livestock Service Directorate, Dr. Yogendra Yadav, speaking at a workshop seminar here on Monday, said that discussions are being held with the related line agencies, awareness programmes are being conducted and monitoring of the border has been made effective for checking bird flu.

Some 60 people including veterinarians, proprietors of hatcheries, representatives of the consumer committees and farmers attended the two-day workshop organized with the objective of discussing ways to check the spread of bird flu and swine flu in the region.

 

Posted on: 2009-12-29 07:15

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