Doha - Qatar has joined the World Animal Health Information System (Wahis), a global Internet-based network that allows participating countries to instantly report outbreaks of epidemics among livestock, poultry and marine life, Dr Qassim Nasser Al Qahtani, Director of Animal Resources, Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Agriculture, said here yesterday.
The Wahis for formally launched at the 74th General Session of the International Committee of the World Organization for Animal Health held from May 21 to 26 in Paris.
Dr Qassim Nasser represented Qatar at the meeting which discussed a variety of issues including threats to livestock and poultry by viruses that cause the mad cow disease and avian influenza, that can also be transmitted to humans.
Attendees stressed the need for the development of new and powerful vaccines that can be administered to animals prone to such disease. The session was also attended by delegates from the World Health Organisation (WHO), Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO), World Trade Organisation (WTO), World Bank and others concerned with the issues. Over 600 delegates from various countries and organizations participated in the event.
Dr Qassim Nasser said, all member countries at the meeting also agreed to step up reporting of the general health situation of animal resources within their territories, twice a year, on the Wahis.
This network, he said, will also allow countries to access database and learn of regional and global threats to animals due to outbreaks of epidemics. The latest trends in prevention and a variety of other resources will also be available. Member countries and organizations will be issued a user name and password to ensure authenticity of information.
Delegates also stressed the need for combined efforts in fighting disease that affect animal resources in member countries, he disclosed.
© The Peninsula 2006
