There is no necessity to quarantine areas found positive for H5N1 bird flu for the time being, says Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr S.Subramaniam.

He said this was because there had not been any cases of H5N1 infection affecting humans and the Health Ministry was making efforts to ensure it would not happen.

The ministry is implementing various preventive measures and giving awareness to those concerned.

"We are disseminating information on health care by putting on protective wear such as face mask, apron and gloves to ensure that those handling chicken do not come in contact with chicken fluid," he told reporters.

Earlier he attended a Segamat District Information Office dinner here with about 200 people including media personnel.

According to Kelantan Veterinary Services Department, two new locations had been found positive for H5N1 in Pasir Mas.

-- BERNAMA