Increased Measures at Points of Entry to Decrease H5N1 Threats to Belize

Dr. Joe Anthony Meyers

In light of the confirmed cases of the H5N1 virus in Mexico and Honduras, BAHA is strengthening its technical and strategic response. This is being done through the One Health approach, a multi-agency initiative to reducing the threat. Doctor Meyers tells us more.

On the phone: Dr. Joe Anthony Meyers, Interim Chief Vet Officer, BAHA

“These are what you would call standard measures or procedures not only pertinent to Belize. It is practiced worldwide. And, the measures get sticker depending on the situation. For example, if you would have noticed in the previous advisory we had said just for passengers and vessels from countries that are infected, but the way the disease is spreading through wild birds, pelicans specifically, then it is difficult to know on timely manner which country or area is infected, but it is across the board. We do it without infringing on anybody’s rights and without putting fear into people visiting our country, while at the same time safeguarding our agricultural health.”