The Asia Development Bank (ADB) said on Oct. 24 avian flu may cost the Asian and Pacific region US$90 to US$110 billion even if it evolves into a mild human pandemic, International Finance News today cited foreign media as saying.

Since prevention is key to curbing a bird flu outbreak, the Bank will grant US$58 million for such programs.

Headquartered in Manila, ADB warned that the SARS experience in 2003 had proved that the avian flu could exert very serious impact if it evolves into an epidemic. Besides reduction of consumption, investment and trade, this also means billions of dollars worth of losses, plus an extra US$15 billion costs due to human death or disability.

If a severe outbreak took place, it would lead to a global economic recession, which would cost US$250 to US$290 billion.

Health experts and officials from more than 50 nations around the world gathered in Copenhagen on Oct. 24 discussing policies and concerted actions against outbreak of human communicable disease to be emerged from avian flu. Overshadowed by the bird flu, the European Commission will decide today, at the request of the UK, whether to ban imports of wild poultry.

By People's Daily Online