First case of Bird Flu Confirmed in Bali
Indonesia clamps down on affected villages
Jakarta, August 13 2007 -The Ministry of Health confirmed today that a new human avian influenza case has been confirmed in Bali. This is the first human case recorded in Bali.
The case, a 29-year-old woman, died on Sunday afternoon August 12 at Sangleh Hospital. She was from Tukad village in Jembrana district 105 kilometers from the capital Denpasar.
“We understand the concerns of both the local and international communities about this suspect case,” said Bayu Krisnamurthi, the Chief Executive of the National Committee for Avian Influenza Control and Pandemic Influenza Preparedness. “A government team is on the ground and FAO and WHO experts are investigating the case,” he added.
The woman’s 5 year-old daughter died on August 4th but the girl was not tested. A 2-and-a-half-year old girl from the same area is also is also being investigated. Samples from the girl are being sent to Jakarta today for testing. Indonesia now has 103 human cases, including 82 fatalities.
Avian influenza was detected in the area last month and focal culling was also carried out on the 19th of July and additional culling was carried in the last few days.
Local and national health officials are monitoring transportation of all animals in and out of the area around where the suspect case was detected. All birds within a kilometer radius are being culled this week. A public awareness campaign for surrounding communities will be carried out this week with support from UNICEF.
Mr. Krisnamurthi said he will go to Bali to see first hand steps being taken to control the outbreak in birds.
“Visitors should not be overly alarmed about this outbreak but stay informed. Human cases were contained earlier this year in Jakarta and strict controls are being put in place in Bali”, said Mr.Kirsnamurthi.
Visitors are encouraged to visit the KOMNASFBPI.go.id website for latest updates.
AI is still primarily an animal disease. It is very difficult for people to contract bird flu. There are simple steps that every one can take to reduce the risk of contracting the bird flu virus:
Do not touch sick or dying birds; if you do, immediately wash your hands and report to local authorities.
Wash your hands and utensils with soap and water before you eat or cook. Cook all poultry and eggs well.
Separate your birds and separate all new flocks for two weeks.
Go immediately to a health clinic if you have a fever with flu-like symptoms and have had contact with bird
KOMNAS FBPI Media Center No.Telp.: (62-21) 3853515/3854227
