Director General of Animal Production and Health Department (APHD) Dr. Hemali Kothalawala said that measures have been taken to prevent the entry of the Avian Influenza A(H5N1) virus to Sri Lanka. (The presence of the virus has recently been reported in several countries.)
The DG of APAH who said that she is often asked by the media regarding this matter, also mentioned that no animal products or animals are allowed to be imported into Sri Lanka from any country where bird flu is currently reported.
She also emphasised that for the first time, in some states of the USA, cattle have been infected with avian influenza, so it is a serious situation. Even so, she emphasised that the disease control measures implemented in Sri Lanka have been further strengthened, and therefore there is no need for undue fear.
