Avian Influenza Resource
24 October 2008
DAFF08/12D
A new information resource developed by Australia’s animal disease experts is set to help the global fight against avian influenza.
The Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry today announced the release of the ‘AI Toolkit’ website that provides a comprehensive information portal on the disease.
“The site collects practical tools and disease strategies from around the world, as well as experiences from countries and experts on emergency animal disease prevention, preparedness and response,” Australia’s Chief Veterinary Officer, Dr Andy Carroll said.
“Australia is leading this initiative among APEC countries and the Toolkit will be a useful resource to help safeguard our region against diseases such as avian influenza and foot and mouth disease.”
The site contains information including:
- practical advice and case studies on the implementation of vaccine strategies;
- biosecurity and operating standards for live bird markets; and
- social and economic issues such as compensation, communications and emergency management.
The online resource was developed by Australia in co-operation with APEC member economies, the United Nations System Influenza Coordinator (UNSIC), the World Organisation for Animal Health (OIE), and the UN’s Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO).
A steering group comprising representatives from Indonesia, Thailand, Vietnam, Australia and the UNSIC helped shape the Toolkit to meet the needs of member economies.
The Toolkit will be presented to delegates at the 6th International Ministerial Conference on Avian and Pandemic Influenza at Sharm El-Sheikh, Egypt today by Dr Carroll.
“The website will be a global resource that complements existing sites and current efforts. It’s the first time that we have had such comprehensive information in the one place for all to access.”
Dr Carroll said the site would be continuously updated as new ways to tackle disease develop.
“The Toolkit will be a living and dynamic resource that continues to evolve with countries’ experiences, international policy developments and technical advances,” he said.
“It’s a great opportunity to present and share material that will help professionals around the world with emergency animal disease preparedness and response.”
The Toolkit can be viewed at www.aitoolkit.org
Contact Officer: Andrew Gordon DAFF Media +61 2 6272 3232