A targeted vaccination campaign for poultry at risk of being infected by the highly pathogenic avian influenza virus may be required to control the further spread of the epidemic, said the experts of the UN Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) in Rome on Thursday.

Issuing a series of recommendations after two days of discussions, the group of experts, including representatives from the World Animal Health Organisation (OIE) and the World Health Organization (WHO) said vaccinating animals could be one method to contain the spread of the virus.

"We are confident that with broad international and regional collaboration in support of national efforts and using all available intervention tools, the crisis can be overcome and the risk to human health be minimized," said Joseph Domenech, Chief of FAO's Animal Health Service.

"Vaccination, when used together with other control measures, such as market and movement management, and good agricultural practices, offers a suitable means to support the suppression of the further spread of the virus," he said.

Experts emphasized the importance of protecting people directly in contact with infected or suspected birds.

Experts present at the talks agreed that such targeted vaccination would help prevent animals falling ill and reduce the amount of virus present in the environment.

They agreed that the vaccination plan, using a vaccine that meets OIE's international quality standards, should be accompanied by clear monitoring and surveillance of the rapidly changing situation.

"Things are changing daily and we need a concerted and co- ordinated response," FAO's Domenech said, adding that veterinary and medical authorities should report cases of outbreaks of avian influenza in their country to the OIE and WHO as soon as they are detected, and keep them informed of the evolving situation.

The experts agreed that vaccine manufacturers have some stocks of relevant vaccines available, but that they would need a few months to gear up to produce sufficient amounts of the required vaccines.

The recommendations issued by the experts included the need for substantial international financial support to fund the intensified control measures required, including personal protective equipment,and the creation of country-specific guidelines and regional coordination programs.