Your editorial piece yesterday morning (Nov. 18, 2005) was a welcome reaction to the seeming paranoia regarding bird flu (b.f.) or avian influenza (a.i.)that is becoming a new household item worldwide.
The attention given to this medical phenomenon is overwhelming that basic issues like high prices, corruption in government and cheating to secure power, have become minor concerns for some people.
And now comes the "funny move" to kill stray dogs to prevent bird flu. Actually, it is not funny at all, because it is not isolated for a stray dog (or even your favorite pet) to act as carrier of a virus or viruses for that matter after exposure.
And whoever suggested the "wild scheme" must be interviewed by the media for some more ideas that doctors and politicians should adapt for future actions against the deadly virus. It is now an accepted possibility that a pandemic may ensue once the avian virus combines fury with the human type.
So it is no joke to think of measure, however trivial, if only to spare the world from a runaway virus. Don't you know that H5N1 strain mutated in the pig somewhere in Asia year ago?
Don't worry about the cost of bullets that will be used to shoot SRP strays. Bullets are not necessary because the city government has a modest manpower to catch roaming animals wherever they are.
What should worry us is when people stop thinking of ways to solve problems. Perhaps by then you will also stop writing editorials.
As a widely read daily, we suggested that you support government agencies and NGOs in pursuing consumer education regarding the real peril posed by the "evil" viruses not only in birds but also in other food animals.
(Sgd.) Dr. Afredo P. Galaroza
City Veterinary Office
Cebu City