Dr Bissoonauthsing World Health Organisation

Have there been any developments concerning bird flu in Mauritius?

Fortunately, no. The World Health Organisation (WHO) has taken all appropriate measures to avoid any pandemic and the Mauritian authorities have followed the instructions to the letter. Thanks to a close surveillance programme at the port and airport – visits to ships and investigations of people coming from risky countries – we can be optimistic about the future.

Does this mean that Mauritius is out of danger?

Well, we can be optimistic but we have to be prepared for anything. It is true that other African countries like Uganda present more risks, as they are closer to the centres of infection in Eastern Europe. But we must not stop vigilance and go for leniency. We have to make sure people do not go to risky areas unless it is absolutely essential; in that case, the authorities have to make sure – and they have done it properly so far – that they do not bring anything back to Mauritius if they go to visit farms or markets in countries like Indonesia, Vietnam, Thailand etc…

What should we be afraid of?

Our great good fortune so far is that there has not been new virus. The existing virus can only be transmitted from bird to bird. It is believed that most cases of bird flu infection in humans have resulted from close contact with infected poultry or contaminated surfaces. This is why migratory birds are under the scrutiny of the authorities – their droppings are analysed and specialists are ready to slaughter any of them if tests turn out to be positive. The risk would be bigger is there was genetic mutation of the virus. People working on farms are requested to be vaccinated against common flu so that they are protected from the human virus.

Is there any other precaution that people should be aware of?

I believe the whole population is now aware of the problem. As I said before, we would advise people not to go to risky areas. I think the press has played a key role in informing the public about the eventual risks. If people did not know about it, it could have led to a real calamity…