“Anything is possible in nature. You have birds that fly around the world…. But let’s hope to God that that is not the case here in the Bahamas.” [Minister of Agriculture and Marine Resources Leslie Miller]Just in case you hear chicken-little reports about a bird flu epedemic in The Bahamas today, here’s the real story: In recent days, 15 flamingos have died under mysterious circumstances on Inagua, our southernmost Island. And, out of an abundance of caution, Bahamian officials alerted their Caribbean and American counterparts to the possibility that they may have been infected with the H5N1 bird flu virus that has ravaged so many birds in Asia (though relatively few humans have been infected).
However, very able scientists from the Bahamas Ministry of Agriculture and the Department of Environmental Health are investigating the matter and will report their lab results in due course.
It’s still better in The Bahamas. So, don’t worry, be happy!
NOTE: For a real (bird flu) cat scare, click here.Bahamas, Bird flu, flamingos
Legacy Note: With over 5,600 posts spanning 20 years, I am easily the most prolific blogger on the most eclectic array of topics on the web. That makes The iPINIONS Journal an unparalleled archive of informed political and cultural commentary. Visit the ARCHIVES section in the sidebar or search by topic. You won’t find a more consistent, independent voice on world affairs.
Anonymous says
Thanks for putting this in proper perspective Mr Hall. Hysteria about this could be devastating for our country.
God bless you my brother. Keep up the good work.
Richard says
The anonymous comment above expresses a serious danger for all Islands. One case of bird flu could dessimate that entire country. So calm is absolutely critical because it would take very little for some crazy US politician from Miami to call for a boycott.
Mary Ballard-Bernstein says
This hype is not going to sway me from my scheduled September caribbean vacation in the slightest…I cannot wait!
Anthony: Some eye candy for you today – http://www.markfiore.com/animation/long.html
ALH ipinions says
That’s the spirit Mary!!!
Thank you for your support and even more for your determination to visit….
Mary Ballard-Bernstein says
You are quite welcome Anthony! It is my dream to retire to Caribbean someday..and this will be my maiden voyage! The pictures that I have seen truly depict what I envision paradise to be…
Now on to that link with your previous commentary concerning the state of affairs … now I can take that break, read it and enjoy!! I am sure it will spark a comment or two from me…