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We propose that the Malaysian Centre for Disease Control (CDC) draw up a comprehensive strategy, including practicable guidelines, so that all concerned can work towards the prevention of bird flu in the country   Press  Statement by Dr Tan Seng Giaw (Kuala Lumpur, Thursday): Yesterday, 12 Asian health ministers resolved in Bangkok to draw up an action plan to fight the bird flu that has reminded people of the SARS pandemic last year. We hope that this plan succeeds. The virus knows no national boundaries. We need international cooperation. In 1997, H5N1 strain of avian flu killed six persons in Hong Kong.  Now, the virus attacks 10 countries in Asia, claiming 10 human lives, eight in Vietnam and two in Thailand. Pakistan and China have also reported the outbreak. It is believed that migratory birds carry the virus to domestic fowls. It mutates. The existing vaccines don’t work on the mutant. It takes specialists months to produce new vaccines.   The Prime Minister says that the Veterinary Department has ordered poultry farmers to follow safety measures and that the Government has banned import of chicken from affected countries while the Health Ministry is taking steps. Agriculture and Health Ministries have responsibility.   For several years, we have proposed setting up CDC. The Government vacillated. Last year, during the outbreak of SARS, it relented, agreeing to establish the centre. Since the mess in the initial period of the Nippah epidemic a few years ago, the Government has implemented workable measures. These can be used against bird flu. So far, there is no bird flu reported in Malaysia. Touch wood.   CDC has an important part to play, preparing comprehensive strategy to prevent the epidemic in the country and to give practicable guidelines to the people. (29/1/2004) * Dr Tan Seng Giaw, DAP National Vice-Chairman and MP for Kepong