MALAYSIA ON ALERT ALTHOUGH NO INFLUENZA A (H5N1) OUTBREAK - MINISTER

PUTRAJAYA, Sept 9 (Bernama) -– Malaysia is on Influenza A (H5N1) alert
although there has been no outbreak in the country since 2003, Health
Minister,Liow Tiong Lai said Thursday.


However, he said the Health Ministry's surveillance team had been activated
to monitor the situation on the ground from time to time.

“Malaysia has been free from Influenza A H5N1 since 2003 as there have been
no positive samples.

“However, we are working closely with the Veterinary Services Department. If
chicken are affected, we will ensure the situation is contained so that there
will be infection of humans," he told reporters after attending the Health
Ministry's Merdeka Raya celebration here Thurdsay.

Liow advised the public to take preventive measures, including seeking
immediate medical attention at clinics if they develop influenza-like illness
symptoms.

On the haze problem, Liow urged the people to avoid outdoor activities at
areas where the Air Pollution Index (API) was unhealthy.

“Patients with eye-disease, asthma and chronic bronchitis should seek
immediate medical attention,” he said.

Asked whether the ministry would distribute face masks if the air quality
deteriorated further, he said ministry would not as they were cheap and easily
available in the market.