Embassy of the United States of America, Manila
Warden Notice
January 18, 2006

THE EMBASSY OF THE UNITED STATES IS TRANSMITTING THE FOLLOWING INFORMATION THROUGH THE EMBASSY WARDEN SYSTEM AS A PUBLIC SERVICE TO AMERICAN CITIZENS IN THE PHILIPPINES. PLEASE DISSEMINATE THIS MESSAGE TO ALL U.S. CITIZENS IN YOUR ORGANIZATION OR NEIGHBORHOOD. THANK YOU.

Please note that these guidelines do NOT reflect any increase in the number of dead birds in the Philippines , only that the U.S. Embassy believes that all residents should be aware of -- and, whenever necessary, follow -- proper handling procedures IN CASE they encounter dead birds.

PROCEDURES FOR HANDLING DEAD BIRDS

The Embassy's Medical Unit has disseminated the following guidance on proper handling of sick birds to Mission personnel:

• Do not allow children or pets to play with dead birds;
• Do not transport live or dead poultry even if it appears to be healthy;
• Call the Bureau of Animal Industry hotline from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. at:
  • (02) 925-9999; or, (02) 928-2836
  • If no answer, call the following: Dr. Davinio Catbagan (Director) - (0917) 535-9970, Dr. Sam Animas (Task Force Coordinator) - (0920) 270-2987

Avoid poultry products from areas of infected birds. If you must travel to infected areas and work directly with infected birds, poultry or humans, hand washing and shoe and clothing cleaning should be an immediate priority. Be sure to wear gloves, a special N-95 mask, goggles and a disposable gown if you must be in contact with the birds/poultry in enclosed environments where aerosolization of the small virus particles may occur. Observe yourself for the development of any respiratory or gastrointestinal symptoms after the visit and check your temperature for a week afterwards, and contact a physician if you have any questions.