“Vietnam has controlled the disease perfectly. The government’s large-scale campaigns have brought good results,” Troedsson said at the meeting to commemorate World Health Day, held in Hanoi on April. 6.

About a year ago, with strong determination and international assistance, Vietnam managed to successfully contain influenza A (H5N1). Since November 14, 2005, Vietnam has reported no further human cases.

The WTO official warned of possible outbreaks of the disease but he also said that the country has succeeded in controlling, extinguishing and preventing its spread. Thanks to direction of authorities, efforts of health workers and other positive measures, the epidemic was isolated in a timely manner.

“That’s why we see positive results in Vietnam's fight against the disease within the past 2 years,” Troedsson said.

According to the WHO, avian influenza is now found in more than 50 countries on almost all continents. Twelve countries are now faced with 285 human cases of H5N1, including 170 deaths.

In Vietnam, H5N1 prevention is the direct responsiblity of the Prime Minister with the participation of all relevant ministries and agencies. Despite the country’s low GDP average, Vietnam has invested US$70 million for the prevention of human influenza.

According to Troedsson, avian influenza (and other communicable diseases) can cross borders, therefore all countries, including Vietnam, need to work together to be prepared to fight a common enemy.

“A collective response is absolutely essential to address the threat to global health, to improve preparedness and respond effectively when they occur. We must act together to address this issue,” he said.

Vietnam’s Minister of Health, Professor Tran Thi Chung Chien said at the meeting that in late 2006 and early 2007, avian influenza re-emerged in Vietnam with complicated developments.

“Currently, what needs to be done is for Vietnam to further step up media campaigns to increase awareness for the community so they know how to prevent it themselves. In the long term, Vietnam has to think about their control on poultry products as well as raising chickens in the farm backyards,” Troedsson said while warning that the fight against bird flu is a long journey.

The WHO official said his organisation is working with other international organisations to provide efficient support to Vietnam in the fight against the disease.

“If bird flu is discovered again in Vietnam, WHO will mobilize all resources, even from our headquarter and offices from all over the world, to help prevent it," he affirmed.

During the past 5 years, WHO has joined the United Nations (UN) in carrying out projects worth US $20 million to help Vietnam control diseases. (VNA)