China, WHO in cooperation

cctv.com 12-21-2005 09:49

Chinese scientists have presented the World Health Organization with two samples of the H5N1 strain of bird flu, along with their genetic sequences.

The samples will help scientists worldwide better understand how the highly pathogenic virus mutates. WHO officials say China has made a great contribution by sharing the samples. WHO Western Pacific Regional Director, Doctor Shigeru Omi says China is an important battleground for bird flu and they hope to widen cooperation.

Doctor Shigeru Omi said: "It's not just China. In many countries in Asia, the virus is already entrenched and imbedded in many parts of the countries. It is not an easy task and the challenge is a very difficult one. I think the Chinese government has showed very strong commitment and political leaders are already committed and so is the Ministry of Health."

Editor:Wang Ping  Source:CCTV.com