Setting up a transparent information network is essential for tackling unexpected natural disasters, says an article in Beijing Youth Daily. An excerpt follows:

The deadly H5N1 avian flu virus is casting a shadow over mankind. Facing assault by bird flu, no one can stay absolutely safe.

The government has made efforts to prevent the spread of the deadly virus. The Ministry of Health has strengthened its monitoring of possible sources of human infection. As part of their efforts to prevent and control the flu, some local governments have launched a daily reporting system.

The Ministry of Health has issued an open warning by saying there is a chance bird flu could spread between human beings.

This demonstrates the power of a responsible government faced by a natural disaster.

With an increasing number of bird flu cases being reported throughout the world, there is no reason for us not to be on high alert.

Facing a possible outbreak of bird flu, the public has the right to be informed about the virus, given that information transparency serves as the key to conquering the disease.

To bring under effective control the recent bird flu cases in the Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, Anhui and Hunan provinces, the Information Office under the State Council held a special press conference last week to make the situation known to the public. To deal with possible outbreaks over the winter and to minimize its impact, the Ministry of Agriculture issued an emergency programme days ago to prevent and control bird flu.

Information disclosure guarantees the public's access to information. In particular, the release of information about unexpected events can enhance the public's monitoring over governments at various levels, prompting them to be more active in coping with the crisis.

(China Daily November 9, 2005)