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Beligum
Outbreak: H5N1 Influenza (Bird Flu)
Between 2004-2005 there was an outbreak of H5N1
Influenza (Bird Flu) in Belgium. The outbreak arrived in
Belgium as a result of smuggled eagles into the Belgium
from Thailand on October 18th 2004. There were over 20
confirmed cases of influenza during this outbreak.
Containing the Outbreak:
During the outbreak, the Belgian health authorities and
airport security rapidly handled the case. Any humans who
came into contact with the infected eagles were notified.
announced the cases as they were discovered. The 25 people
who came in to contact with the birds were immediately
vaccinated. Also, any animals infected were quarantined and
evaluated. The health authorities communicated to the public
rapidly. The public were advised to seek medical attention if
they came into contact with the birds and/or other infected
persons.
Taking Care of the Sick and Communicating Accurately:
Those infected were immediately vaccinated and were taken
care of by medical professionals. Health authorities and the
Belgium government took part in measures to alert the
public. There was also an increase of information provided
to the public. The Scientific Institute of Public Health
communicated about the outbreak to the European Union.
Managing Long Term Consequences:
The epidemic of H5N1 Influenza (Bird Flu) in 2004 was a
result of infected birds throughout Asia. The Belgian
government, health authorities and airport personnel began
taking steps to eliminate smuggling of animals. The Belgian
government and health officials also took measures to inform
the public. Lastly, the health system in Belgium was speedy
to quarantine and treat all infected and potentials infected
people and animals.