1. The Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza or HPAI virus is endemic in Southeast Asia, and continues to pose a threat to Singapore. There are ongoing outbreaks of the deadly H5N1 strain of HPAI in several countries in the region, and countries such as Indonesia, China and Egypt have also reported new human cases.

2. The main route of HPAI virus transmission from birds to humans is through direct contact with infected poultry or their faeces. To date, sustained human-to-human transmission of HPAI has not been observed although there have been suspected cases of limited and inefficient human-to-human transmission of the virus in rare, isolated clusters.

3. Singapore is now better prepared to prevent and contain the spread of HPAI. However, we cannot afford to be complacent as the recent outbreaks show that a resurgence of the disease is possible. Thus far, AVA has kept the virus out of Singapore by adopting a multi-layered defence strategy. Let me highlight the five key elements of this strategy.

4. First, AVA works closely with our ASEAN neighbours to combat the disease in the region. The ASEAN HPAI Taskforce was set up to coordinate regional initiatives for avian flu control. We also collaborate with international agencies to expand our capacity to deal with HPAI.

5. Second, to prevent the incursion of the disease into Singapore, AVA bans import of birds and avian products from HPAI-infected countries. We only import live poultry and shelled eggs from Malaysia, which is currently free from avian flu. AVA has also worked with its Malaysian counterpart to establish Disease-Free Zones from which we can still import poultry even if isolated cases of avian flu are detected in other areas.

6. Third, at our borders, AVA imposes stringent checks and surveillance on all consignments of live poultry and birds to reduce the risk of HPAI being introduced into Singapore.

7. Fourth, for local control, AVA has intensified inspection and surveillance at our local poultry farms and poultry slaughterhouses. Strict bio-security has been imposed on the poultry farms and slaughterhouses. Birds in the Jurong Bird Park, the zoo, the Botanic Gardens and Sentosa have been vaccinated against HPAI.

8. Fifth, we have prepared ourselves for a possible HPAI outbreak in Singapore by drawing up contingency plans. These plans involve the activation of manpower to cull poultry in affected local farms. AVA has stockpiled personal protective equipment and culling equipment for the culling operations. Training exercises in culling have also been conducted to ensure operational readiness.

9. The ongoing outbreaks and re-emergence of the disease in some countries are a stark reminder of the need for us to remain vigilant. We will continue with our multi-layered defence strategy and to fine-tune it when necessary to safeguard Singapore against HPAI.

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