Stay away from wild-bird habitats
Wed, Jan 28, 2009
The Nation/Asia News Network




THAILAND: Consuming water from natural reservoirs or swimming in areas inhabited by wild birds can increase the risk of contracting avian influenza, the Public Health Ministry said in a warning yesterday.

"Don't panic but be aware that water from such sources might be contaminated by the H5N1 virus," advised the Health Ministry's deputy permanent secretary Dr Paijit Warachit, adding that the strain can thrive in water for 17 days.

The warning came after a resident in Suphan Buri's Muang district filed a complaint with local media that more than 10,000 Lesser Whistling Ducks had taken over the natural reservoir in Tambon Paikwang and that the villagers were afraid these birds would give them bird flu. This is the first time that Lesser Whistling Ducks have migrated to this reservoir.

"Don't let the water splash on your eyes or mouth," Paijit warned.

Department of Disease Control director, Dr ML Somchai Chakrabhand, said people in and around Bangkok were complaining about an influx of doves and pigeons. He warned that there is a risk of contracting infections from pigeon droppings, which develop fungus in humid weather. He also advised that people with diabetes, allergies, high-blood pressure and kidney disease should stay away from doves.

The warning came after a resident in Suphan Buri's Muang district filed a complaint with local media that more than 10,000 Lesser Whistling Ducks had taken over the natural reservoir in Tambon Paikwang and that the villagers were afraid these birds would give them bird flu.