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China steps up efforts against swine flu

(chinadaily.com.cn)
Updated: 2009-04-30 15:41

Within days, the new strain of swine flu has spread across borders, and killed more than a hundred people. Although no cases had been reported in China as of Tuesday, the world's most populous country is well aware of the threat, and is taking action to keep the disease away from its doors.

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Checkpoints across the country have been tightened up. Airports in Guangzhou and Changsha have set up equipment to check all passengers' temperatures. Those with a temperature higher than 37.5 degrees Celsius must go through further checks.

Travelers who have recently visited North or South American countries or are unwell will be given particular attention at Shenzhen's border checks.

All medical institutions are required to set up special clinics for patients showing swine flu symptoms. And experts have been sent to provide consultations and treatment across the country. Beijing has designated three hospitals with experience treating SARS patients to receive swine flu patients.

China has banned the import of pork and pork products from Mexico and several US states to minimize the risk of a swine flu outbreak.

Food safety and agriculture watchdogs have set up working teams with the Ministry of Health to monitor the situation and deal with any emergency.