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China asks WHO experts to join flu-prevention team

(Xinhua)
Updated: 2009-05-02 20:25

BEIJING -- China's Ministry of Health will ask experts from the World Health Organization (WHO) office in China to join a team for the prevention and control of influenza A(H1N1).

The Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, an epidemic control body under the ministry, will also hold regular meetings with WHO about technical issues, according to a statement on the ministry's website Saturday.

Full coverage:  A (H1N1) Influenza Outbreak Related readings:  China develops live H5N1 vaccine for human  China's anti-flu aids arrive in Mexico  Chief Secretary: HK's flu preventive measures appropriate

Ministry officials met Friday with Hans Troedsson, WHO chief representative in China, to discuss steps China had taken to prevent an outbreak of the flu, the statement said.

The two sides agreed to work together to give the public the latest and most accurate information about influenza A(H1N1).

WHO also promised to help China get A(H1N1) virus samples, to be used in developing vaccines and treatments, the statement said.

Troedsson expressed appreciation of China's preparations against the flu and said WHO would continue effective cooperation with the Health Ministry, according to the statement.

China confirmed its first A(H1N1) case in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Friday, but the mainland has not reported any case yet.