'Give us sufficient information about bird flu'

Avian influenza has caused fear across the country, with very few people having any real understanding of how to protect against exposure to the virus. The Jakarta Post asked residents whether the government had done enough to contain bird flu.

Asykin, 52, is the principal of a state high school in Bulungan, South Jakarta. He lives in Ciputat, South Jakarta:

I believe the government has been prompt in responding to the avian influenza outbreak.

But it would be much better if the government also disseminated information and educated people about the disease and the necessary preventative measures.

Everyone should know the symptoms of bird flu and how to differentiate it from common influenza, how we should cook poultry for safe consumption, where to get further information about bird flu, as well as who and where we should contact if someone in our neighborhood shows symptoms of bird flu.

Moreover, for those who live near chicken slaughterhouses, they need information on what they should do to minimize their chances of contracting bird flu.

Primarily, the government should educate chicken breeders about how to maintain sanitary conditions.

Elly Sunarsih, 51, is a lecturer at a private university. She lives in Cibubur, East Jakarta:

I think the government still has not told people about the real dangers of bird flu.

Some people might not think it is that harmful, so they will not pay much attention to it or take part in efforts to contain the outbreak.

The government should provide us comprehensive information about the disease. Very few people, for example, know that we can get disinfectant at public health centers.

The government should be more active in disseminating such information to the public, including the dangers of bird flu and the preventative measures people can take.

All of us should realize that avian influenza is deadly.

-- The Jakarta Post