FAO: Egypt one of five countries where H5N1 still persists

Via H5N1 (Crofsblogs) and Daily News Egypt Excerpt:

"Egypt is listed as one of five countries where the H5N1 virus, or avian influenza, still persists, said a statement by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO).

The H5N1 virus has been combated in 135 countries while an outbreak remains a threat in Egypt, China, Bangladesh, Indonesia and Vietnam.

'Unfortunately, H5N1 may have slipped off the radar screen for some people, but it continues to be a major problem, especially in Egypt and parts of Asia, where it is having a huge impact on food security and the livelihoods of farmers and local communities,' said Juan Lubroth, FAO's chief veterinary officer.

Bangladesh, Indonesia and Vietnam reported bird flu outbreaks resulting in the deaths of thousands of birds thus far while Egypt reported more human cases.
Poor farm biosecurity and trading of infected poultry are the main causes of the disease spread, according to the FAO.

Last Sunday, Egypt’s Ministry of Health announced the 34th bird flu-related death in the country; an 18-year-old woman from Fayoum. The number of bird flu cases witnessed a hike in 2010; the 18-year-old is the seventh reported this year.

A total of 109 cases have been reported since the virus first appeared in Egypt in 2006."

News source: http://www.thedailynewsegypt.com/article.aspx?ArticleID=29023