Helpful hints

Since Switzerland is, for the moment at least, an island in a sea of bird flu cases, it never hurts to be vigilant. So I was pleased to see this posted on our website this morning:

Due to increased vigilance and surveillance on the part of the Swiss Authorities, Basel veterinary officials have issued the following guidelines for identifying possible cases of avian flu:

- 5 or more dead birds within an area of 50-100 metres
- 2 dead ducks at the same location
- 1 dead swan, goose or bird of prey (such as a hawk or falcon)

If you encounter a case similar to the guidelines above, it must be reported to the Baselstadt or Baselland police.

The Swiss Government has issued the order that as of 20 February all fowl must be kept in a closed barn or cage (no free running birds).

Tell your children not to touch any dead bird or animal that they might find. If someone has any contact with a dead animal, please don't touch your face and ensure you wash your hands with hot water and soap as soon as possible as well as the any clothing that might also have had contact with the dead animal.

I was going to make some sort of smart-ass response, but I figure I want the best possible bird flu karma so I'll let it speak for itself...