U.S. experts focus on avian flu efforts (02/12/06)

U.S. experts focus on avian flu efforts

KYIV - A U.S. government interagency delegation on Avian Influenza visited Ukraine on January 27-29 as part of a trip to Turkey, Armenia, Azerbaijan and Georgia to learn about the region's preparations to address avian influenza.

The team met with Ukrainian counterparts to hear about the avian influenza situation, see what lessons have been learned, and make recommendations on what the U.S. can do to support efforts in Ukraine to prepare for, detect and respond to outbreaks of avian influenza as part of a broader international assistance effort.

"The team hopes to expand existing lines of communication between bilateral, multilateral and private-sector partners, and encourage closer collaboration among experts in government and non-governmental animal and human health organizations," said Anne Derse, Department of State representative on the team.

"We are urging countries across the world to accelerate efforts to address avian influenza, including rapid detection and reporting of cases, transparent and open sharing of information, data and samples, and comprehensive planning to respond to and contain potential outbreaks," she said.

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