West Java Highest for Bird Flu

West Java still has the highest number of bird flu positive humans in Indonesia, 31 cases. In regards to that, the public must promote the habit of clean and healthy living to avoid bird flu viruses (Avian Influenza) coming from the environment. According to Head of the Environmental and Residential Health Sub-Office of the Health Office of West Java, dr. Wahyu, the rapidness of bird flu response starts from early identification. “Usually, it [identification] is done in community health centers, which are the referred place for people to get medication,” he said.

Data from the Health Office of West Java province stated that from 31 positive cases in humans, 25 were fatal. From 2005 until 2008, bird flu suspect cases reached 212 cases, with the death of 24 people. For 2008, 2 positive cases were found and both were fatal.
Wahyu also said that equipment in the community health centers are often inadequate to diagnose only from clinical signs. Therefore, to avoid late treatment of cases, people are advised to report if they found anybody with bird flu symptoms. “The faster we find the cases, the faster treatment could be given,” he said.