u=3051531454,3579119362&fm=23&gp=0.jpg (Photo : baidu.com)
Chinese Vice-Premier Liu Yandong on Sunday asked for improved coordination between concerned groups so that the country can better prevent and control the spread of the H7N9 avian flu virus.
China and Hong Kong both saw a resurgence of the H7N9 in recent weeks and are concerned about a possible spike in cases with the expected mass migration during the Spring Festival season. Liu urged all levels of local departments to stay on heightened alert for H7N9 cases and to work together to manage and stop the spread of the disease. She emphasized the need for improved systems of monitoring and early notification, as well as improved methods of treatment and remedies at the lowest level of society, in order to decrease the number of seriously ill patients and casualties.
Liu added that China will boost its efforts in monitoring live poultry, will continue to pursue further vaccine research and development, improve communication and cooperation with the international community in matters pertaining to epidemic control and prevention, and disseminate up to date relevant disease information.
China's National Health and Family Planning Commission (NHFPC) also encouraged all local chapters of the health department to intensify their efforts to prevent and control infectious diseases which are more prevalent during the winter and spring months. The commission also warned those who do not heed their call that heavy punishment may await them.
The NHFPC also instructed local departments to heighten their monitoring efforts in critical areas including medical hospitals, disease management and prevention units, kindergartens and schools and institute steps ahead to deter an outbreak of epidemic proportions.
In Zhejang province where the biggest number of human infections has been reported, a number of poultry markets had been closed to prevent further spread of the virus as the Spring Festival nears and the sale and consumption of poultry is expected to crescendo.
