SINCE 2003, the virulent H5N1 strain of bird flu has infected almost 400 people, killing close to 250. It is endemic in many parts of Asia.

The virus does not spread easily among humans for now, but scientists worry it could mutate and trigger a pandemic. It could kill 70 million people and cost US$3 trillion (S$4.5 trillion) in damage.

In Singapore, these are some measures taken:

Officials regularly test local poultry, wild birds, pets and imported birds and eggs. A contingency plan for culling infected birds has also been drawn up.

Singapore is stockpiling enough medicine to treat 1.5 million patients. It has also placed an order for pandemic vaccines for the entire population.

If bird flu breaks out, Tan Tock Seng Hospital, with its Communicable Disease Centre, will be the dedicated hospital for flu cases as long as is feasible. Health officials will do contact tracing and impose home quarantine.

Travellers entering the country will be checked, which includes thermal scanning to determine if they have a fever.

Schools, shopping malls and entertainment outlets could be closed to prevent the spread of the virus. Non-essential businesses could also be asked to shut down.

Stockpiling:

The Government is working to expand its food sources, and is stockpiling food supplies.

Officials are also taking steps to secure other essential supplies and services, including water, energy, waste disposal, mortuary services, financial services, law enforcement, info-communications; transportation and trade infrastructure.

Businesses are being asked to develop back-up plans to deal with an influenza pandemic. Those could include developing a telecommuting plan so people can work from home, and stockpiling medical supplies.

Some things you can do:

Stockpile at least two weeks worth of food, medicine and other essentials.

During a pandemic, go to the hospital or a flu clinic if you have influenza symptoms such as fever, headache, tiredness, cough, sore throat, runny nose, body ache, diarrhoea and vomiting.

Wash your hands frequently and thoroughly.

Wear a face mask when using public transport or visiting crowded areas.

Those who want more information can look up Flu Pandemic: A Guide For You And Your Family at http://www.crisis.gov.sg

CHANG AI-LIEN