During discussions, experts from the UN Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) and domestic experts focussed on some of the more problematic issues surrounding bird flu in Vietnam.

FAO expert Les Sim said Vietnam has been doing well in dealing with difficult virus, and added that his organisation would further provide technical assistance to the country.

Sim also said Vietnam’s national programme on bird flu prevention should promote veterinary work, especially at the grassroots level. According to the FAO representative, the country should raise poultry breeders’ awareness of the vaccination programme and to be active in coping with difficulties caused by the vaccination for ducks that are allowed to feed in rice paddies.

The official went on to urge the country to tighten hygienic standards for animal breeding, slaughtering and trading, continue with a five-year national vaccination programme.

Foreign experts also suggested other solutions, such as controlling animal transportation and raising public awareness about the impacts of the disease.