All institutions are, if unauthorized, forbidden to conduct scientific research on bird flu, according to a notice issued by the Ministry of Science and Technology.

According to the notice, all unauthorized institutions are not allowed to carry out scientific study on the highly pathogenic virus or collect, transport and harbor virus strains.

Institutions and individuals are also banned from introducing foreign virus strains to China or transporting Chinese samples abroad. International cooperation requires government approval.

The notice requires local science authorities to focus on research on bird flu vaccines and medicines for human infections, while monitoring over migratory birds and helping outbreak areas check the spreading of the virus.

It orders them to collect, analyze and exchange information on bird flu, learn prevention and control requirements and report the information to the science and technology team of the national anti-bird flu campaign headquarters.

According to the notice, local science and technology personnel are required to work to prevent and control the virus at the front line and educate the public on knowledge to check the virus from spreading.

(Xinhua News Agency November 18, 2005)