The Egyptian authorities, people and media should be levelheaded in dealing with the bird flu. Scientific methodologies and plans are called for to help control the disease.

In this regard, volunteer efforts are required. Young Egyptians are urged to play a role in raising public awareness of the virus and of the means of protection against it.

Businessmen and entrepreneurs are also called upon to help owners of and workers in poultry farms by creating a fund to help the afflicted. A specialized body should be established to rehabilitate poultry workers and engage them in other work fields.

Al Ahram
Tuesday, February 21, 2006