After the Government session, in the traditional style, was held the briefing where the Prime Minister Zurab Noghaideli highlighted once again the fact of identification of a case of avian influenza in Ajara.
Yesterday afternoon in Dalia, Khelvachauri Region, were found 11 perished swans. They were examined at the Central Laboratory. According to the preliminary data in Ajar was established the avian influenza virus H5N1. The study materials are also sent to London and Venice and in some days we be clearly informed if it is H5N1 virus really.
Some very important recommendations:
First of all, please be informed that the fowling in prohibited in Georgia. However, in fowls were detected the injuries incurred with small shot. Such facts shall be eradicated without fail. I apply to the population to avoid fowling especially in Kolkhida lowland, Javakheti lake environs and in Kakheti.
Additional recommendations:
The population, especially children, shall refuse flatly any contact with fowl. It will be better to place the poultry in closed premises. In the Khelvachauri region the population in case of detection of any signs of influenza resulted from the contact with poultry shall apply to a doctor.
I would like to note that in order to liquidate this nidus and prevent transmission of flu from migrant bird to poultry and spread of avian flu among population we will take maximum measures. For this all resources will be mobilized.
One more recommendation.
Trade in poultry in Georgia shall be prohibited.
All preventive measures provided by the western standards have been already implemented in Khelvachauri.
Press Center of the Chancellery of the Government of Georgia