Bird flu and wake-up call
Thanks for taking up the bird flu epidemic which engulfed the country at a galloping speed leading to culling of innumerable poultry, ducks, pigeons, quails, geese etc. The farmers, traders, feed producers and those related to the poultry industries are in deep trouble. Your reference to the observation of Dr. Domenech, Chief Veterinary officer, FAO, may act as an impulse to the fatigued authority to wake up from the deep slumber. Since the first invasion of the virus into the country in March 2007, Avian Flu has left scars of onslaughts in as many as 26 districts. Although no human is yet to contract the disease, there is no reason to be complacent, for disaster may strike any time.
Dr. Domenech in his press conference has explained the situation and expressed his views about the task to be undertaken in no time to combat the unbridled spreading of the deadly virus. His advice to consider the strategies adopted by the countries affected by Avian Influenza in overcoming the crisis is a sort of prescription. His worry about Bangladesh “the virus has become deeply entrenched despite major efforts” is to be testified by the authorities concerned adopting the measures specified by the OIE/FAO.
The poultry industry of Bangladesh has engaged more than 4 million people. The backyard poultry is an asset of the country which produces poultry meat and eggs and strengthens the rural economy along with nursing the nutritional status of the village people.
Will the authorities take care of this and help end the ordeal faced by the country?
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