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| WHO: SARS prevention encouraging but alert still a must |
| CCTV.COM 2003-05-31 09:05:58 |
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The World Health Organization says that Beijing on the right track to become a SARS－free city, but high alert must be maintained. The Organization has also expressed its confidence that the world can eradicate the disease, though it's a tough road to go.
Speaking of the decreasing number of reported new SARS cases in Beijing, a WHO representative says Friday afternoon that the progress is encouraging, and he credits the government measures. But he stresses the public should not lower its guard.
"It's clear reflection of the control measures which has been put into place by the government. I'd like to congratulate the government. At the same time, it's important to realize that what we have learnt so far from SARS…" said Henk Bekedam, WHO representative.
Bekedam says the WHO's recent reinstated travel advisory against Toronto is a good example for all SARS－affected areas to be on the alert against a rebound in cases.
He called for global efforts in discovering the pathogen and producing a vaccine for the SARS virus. He says the WHO is ready to eradicate the disease, but it still needs time. He said "WHO has strong feelings that we can eliminate SARS. But it won't be overnight...if you put all the measures in place...you can win the battle."
The World Health Organization has recently lifted its traveling ban to China's Hong Kong SAR and Guangdong Province. It's now monitoring to see whether Beijing can meet its four criteria to be removed from the list.
"First, the number of cases in hospitals being treated is less than 60... second, everyday low cases； third, understanding how it's transmitted； fourth, no cases spread from Beijing to other provinces and areas," said Henk Bekedam.
Bekedam notes one of the urgent tasks is to know where the SARS cases come from. He says further investigation and research are needed to find out.
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Editor: Han Ling CCTV.com
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