Arka News Agency, Armenia
Feb 23 2007

ARMENIA SHOULD NOT IGNORE AVIAN FLU RISK

YEREVAN, February 23. /ARKA/. Armenia should not ignore the risk
connected with the avian flu, Armenia’s Minister of Agriculture David
Lokian told journalists.
"The risk is high as bird flu cases were recorded in our neighboring
countries – Turkey and Iran. Some time ago signs of bird flue were
found in Azerbaijan and Georgia, and it is unreasonable to rule out
the disease risk," Lokian said.
"The most important thing is to be ready to promptly localize the
virus once it is found and to prevent its spread that bears serious
risks for the economy and people," Minister said.
He reported the prohibited import of poultry to Armenia from the
countries where bird flu was found.
The interagency coordinating body continues operating and holds its
meeting once per week, with participation of the U.S. and EU experts,
Lokian said. N.V. -0–