INDONESIA ON ALERT OVER RETURN OF BIRD FLU by Fardah

      Jakarta, Oct 20, 2011 (ANTARA) - Health Minister Endang Rahayu Sedyaningsih has been closely following the apparent return of bird flu or avian influenza (H5N1) in some regions in Indonesia lately and reminded the concerned parties and the public in general to be on alert.

      "We must wash our hands after touching poultry. This simple thing is the most effective way to prevent influenza, including bird flu," the minister said, adding that poultry farmers must improve hygiene.

SUMATRA ON ALERT AS BIRD FLU COMES BACK by Fardah

     Jakarta, April 2, 2011 (ANTARA) - The sudden death of thousands of chickens has been reported in several cities on Sumatra Island over the past several months.
     Local health authorities have confirmed that most of the chickens had died of bird flu or avian influenza (H5N1).   The poultry deaths due to bird flu have occurred among other things in the Sumatran provinces of West Sumatra, Bengkulu, Jambi and Bangka Belitung.