In order to look out for signs of a bird flu epidemic, a watch-station has been set up in Shenyang, in the northeastern part of China. The watch station would continuously monitor sources at risk for a potential infection and would pay additional attention on areas, which the migratory birds frequently visit during winter.
China serves a main route for travel of more than 20% of the total number of migratory birds worldwide, approximating to nearly six hundred different types. The movement of migratory birds from one part of the world to the other accounts for spread for bird flu.The fourth documented case of a lethal infection of the H5N1 bird flu virus in China of a 10-year-old girl from Guangxi region has added to the already existing fear. The girl has been admitted to a hospital and is said to be receiving treatment as an emergency measure. The local health officials have expressed an improvement in the patient’s condition since the time of admission.
The deadly virus has already been held responsible for claiming over 50 valuable lives in Asia alone. Countries that face a bird flu threat are likely to be sanctioned a sum of $300 million to $500 million by the World Bank towards managing the condition. It is expected to arrive before the global summit, scheduled to be held in Beijing between the 17th and 18th of January.
