Laboratory samples being prepared during development of a bird flu vaccine

A United Nations agency says that while Burma responded quickly to outbreaks of bird flu last month, it needs more help to continue its fight against the disease in the long term.

The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) says that the source of an outbreak that spread to four townships around Rangoon in late February is still unknown.

To help prevent further outbreaks, the FAO says that more intensive surveillance was needed around Rangoon. It is also recommending that the military-ruled country strengthen its lab capabilities, animal health services and public awareness campaigns.

The FAO is providing Burma with 1.4 million dollars in emergency assistance to help fight the disease.