Ministry draws up flu pandemic action plan

Star: YANGON: The Health Ministry has come up with an action plan to be implemented should an influenza pandemic breaks out.
The plan, which provides a policy and strategic framework for a multi-sector response, contains specific advice and action to be taken not only by the ministry but also by other government departments and agencies, as well as non-governmental organisations.
Health Minister Datuk Dr Chua Soi Lek said there was a growing concern over the imminent threat of an influenza pandemic that could have very devastating consequences worldwide.
He said the plan was to ensure that resources were mobilised and used efficiently during the pandemic period.
“Influenza pandemic simulation exercises have been carried out at both state and national levels to ensure that the Plan of Action is workable,” said Chua who was speaking at the Eighth Asean Health Ministers Meeting in Myanmar yesterday.
He added that Malaysia, with its expertise from its two decades-long involvement in influenza virus surveillance, would be offering its services to the WHO Collaboration Centre for Influenza via the Institute for Medical Research.