Shenzhen has implemented an emergency system to combat the H5N1 strain of avian flu.

Authorities have expanded the compulsory vaccination of all poultry and people with close contact with birds.

No infections have yet been reported in the city. The government had begun giving prevention shots to poultry on farms, markets and domestic birds. On Monday, the city’s center of disease control decided on a carpet epidemic prevention, media reported Tuesday.

Disinfection measures are to be taken in some key public venues. A health education campaign is planned while handouts and posters about the flu are being prepared.

The city’s safari park has been closed to the public to avoid potential danger. A spokesperson said a reopening date would be up to authorities, the Southern Metropolitan News reported.

The mini-zoo at Donghu Park has also isolated its birds. Visitors are also prohibited from viewing birds at close range at the national mangrove reserve in Futian near Shenzhen Bay.

Poultry and wildlife are banned from buses and any carried by passengers into Shenzhen will be quarantined and tested for the virus before being released.

The municipal and district industry and commerce administrators inspected poultry markets in Shenzhen to ensure conditions were hygienic. Sellers are required to obtain certificates stating the source of poultry and quarantine conditions.

Meanwhile, poultry consumption is continuing normally and its business is as usual at KFC restaurants.

(Shenzhen Daily February 4, 2004)