A simulation exercise involving personnel from the Animal Health and Production Division in the Ministry of Agriculture will be held here today.

The exercise will focus on improving communication and co-ordination, resource planning, preparedness and response for the introduction of a highly contagious animal disease in St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

The Ministry says the simulation is based on the example of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza being introduced in St. Vincent. It says Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) is a devastating disease in poultry; it is associated with a high death rate and disrupts poultry production and trade.

This exercise will focus on determining activities that should be undertaken when a highly contagious disease is introduced into St. Vincent and the Grenadines and exploring the inter-agency communication and coordination mechanisms that would be used to control the disease.

The sessions will be attended by representatives of Veterinary services, stakeholders working in animal health and movement of animals (trade, customs, and public health), representatives of the National Emergency Management Organization (NEMO) and other participants.

Source NBC Radio